What is electrolytic decomposition? Give two uses of an electrolytic decomposition reaction.
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Solution
Part 1: Electrolytic decomposition:
When electricity is passed through a molten compound which is ionic nature, then the ions of the compound separate into components decomposing the compound.
Example: Electrolysis of water is an electrolytic decomposition that leads to the formation of gases from water.
The chemical reaction can be depicted as:
Part 2: Uses of electrolytic decomposition:
This reaction is used in the separation of gases/metals from the compound.
In the electrolysis of water, this reaction is useful for separating Hydrogen and Oxygen gas from water.