Electrolysis Investigation

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PHYSICS COURSEWORK.

Prediction.

        Electrolysis is the method of using electricity to separate two solutions. This works by passing electricity through the anode, (the positive electrode,) through the solution and then back up the cathode, the negative electrode. In this investigation we will be using Sodium Chloride (commonly know as salt) to react. If the ions are positively charged then they will be attracted to the cathode, the negative electrode, and if they are negatively charged then they will be attracted to the positive electrode, the anode. When we use the Sodium Chloride then the sodium ions will be attracted to the negative electrode and the chlorine ions will be attracted to the positive electrode. If we increase the concentration then the reaction will happen faster because there are more electrons and so the chance of a reaction happening is increased.

The current is the flow of Ions in the electrolyte cell, so more Ions means more current.

Variables.

  • Material of the electrode.
  • Concentration.
  • Voltage.
  • Temperature.                                          Independent
  • Surface area of the electrodes.           Variables.
  • Distance between the electrodes.
  • Current. – Dependent variable.
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Apparatus.

  • Goggles.
  • Electrolysis Cell.
  • 6-Volt Power Pack.
  • Distilled Water.
  • Sodium Chloride.
  • Measuring Cylinder.
  • Ammeter.

Diagram.

                                                   Power Pack.

        Ammeter

        Anode                                           Cathode.

                                                                  Beaker

Sodium Chloride

Solution                                                                

Fair Test.

        To keep this experiment fair then I will only change one of the variables. The variable that will change is the concentration of the Sodium Chloride Solution.

Method.

  • Collect all the equipment listed above.
  • Choose the concentration that you will be using for the first experiment.
  • Collect some distilled water and make sure that it is pure water ...

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