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electrolysis
A chemical reaction caused by passing a direct current (DC) through an electrolyte. Thie results in positive ions migrating to the negative electrode (cathode) and negative ions migrating to the positive electrode (anode). The type of electron transfer reaction occurring depends on the electrode potentials of the ions present, and the electrode material may also play a part in the reaction. For example, in the electrolysis of copper salts with a copper anode, atoms of the electrode ionize and enter into solution.
Electrolysis is an important method of obtaining chemicals, particularly for extracting reactive metals such as sodium, magnesium, aluminum, and chlorine.
Related categories
• ELECTRICITY & MAGNETISM
• PHYSICAL CHEMISTRY
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