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ICSE Class 10 Chemistry Question 35 of 60

Electrolysis — Question 35

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Question 1(2016)

The particles present in strong electrolytes are:

Select the correct answer from A, B, C and D:

A: only molecules
B: mainly ions
C: ions and molecules
D: only atoms

Answer

mainly ions

Source: This question is from Electrolysis, Chemistry — Class 10, ICSE Board.

Key Concepts Covered

This question tests your understanding of the following concepts from the chapter Electrolysis: Question, Particles, Present, Strong, Electrolytes, Select. These are fundamental topics in Chemistry that students are expected to master as part of the ICSE Class 10 curriculum.

A thorough understanding of these concepts will help you answer similar questions confidently in your ICSE examinations. These topics are frequently tested in both objective and subjective sections of Chemistry papers. We recommend revising the relevant section of your textbook alongside practising these solved examples to build a strong foundation.

How to Approach This Question

Read the question carefully and identify what is being asked. Break down complex questions into smaller parts. Use the terminology and concepts discussed in this chapter. Structure your answer logically — begin with a definition or key statement, then provide supporting details. Review your answer to ensure it addresses all parts of the question completely.

Key Points to Remember

  • Balance chemical equations before solving numerical problems.
  • Learn the periodic table trends and exceptions.
  • Understand reaction mechanisms, not just outcomes.
  • Use correct IUPAC nomenclature in your answers.

Related Questions from Electrolysis

Practice more questions from Electrolysis — Chemistry, Class 10 ICSE

Chapter Overview: Electrolysis

Electrolysis is the process of decomposing an ionic compound (electrolyte) by passing an electric current through it in its molten or aqueous state. The apparatus consists of an electrolyte, two electrodes (anode and cathode), and a battery. Cations migrate to the cathode (reduction) and anions migrate to the anode (oxidation). The chapter covers electrolysis of molten lead bromide, acidified water, aqueous copper sulphate (with different electrodes), and concentrated HCl. The selective discharge theory explains which ions are preferentially discharged at electrodes when multiple ions are present. The electrochemical series helps predict the order of discharge. Applications include electroplating, electrorefining of metals, and extraction of reactive metals (like aluminium from alumina). Students must write electrode reactions (half-equations) showing electron gain at cathode and electron loss at anode, and understand the difference between electrolytes and non-electrolytes. This chapter requires understanding both the theory and practical applications of electrolysis.

Key Definitions & Electrode Reactions

Term Definition
ElectrolysisChemical decomposition of an electrolyte by passing electric current through it
ElectrolyteSubstance that conducts electricity in molten or aqueous state and is decomposed
CathodeNegative electrode; cations are reduced here (gain electrons)
AnodePositive electrode; anions are oxidised here (lose electrons)
Selective DischargeWhen multiple ions are present, the ion lower in the electrochemical series is discharged first
ElectroplatingCoating a metal object with a thin layer of another metal using electrolysis
Strong ElectrolyteCompletely ionised in solution (e.g., NaCl, HCl, NaOH)
Weak ElectrolytePartially ionised in solution (e.g., CH3COOH, NH4OH)

Must-Know Concepts

  • Electrolysis of acidified water: Cathode: 4H+ + 4e− → 2H2↑; Anode: 4OH− → 2H2O + O2↑ + 4e−
  • H2 and O2 are produced in 2:1 volume ratio at cathode and anode respectively
  • CuSO4 with Cu electrodes: Cu deposited at cathode, Cu dissolved from anode (copper refining)
  • CuSO4 with Pt/C electrodes: Cu deposited at cathode, O2 at anode, solution turns acidic
  • Molten PbBr2: Cathode: Pb2+ + 2e− → Pb; Anode: 2Br− → Br2 + 2e−
  • Non-electrolytes: sugar solution, alcohol, kerosene (no free ions)
  • For electroplating: object to be plated = cathode, plating metal = anode, salt of plating metal = electrolyte

Electrolyte vs Non-Electrolyte

Property Electrolyte Non-Electrolyte
BondingIonic or polar covalentNon-polar covalent
IonsContains free ionsNo free ions
ConductivityConducts when molten/dissolvedDoes not conduct
ExamplesNaCl, HCl, CuSO4Sugar, alcohol, urea

Important Diagrams to Practice

  • Electrolysis cell setup with labelled anode, cathode, electrolyte, and battery
  • Electrolysis of acidified water showing gas collection in inverted test tubes
  • Electroplating setup (e.g., silver plating on a spoon)
  • Electrolytic refining of copper

Common Mistakes

  • Confusing anode (+) and cathode (−) in electrolysis (opposite of electrochemical cells)
  • Writing "oxidation at cathode" (cathode is always reduction in electrolysis)
  • Forgetting that solid ionic compounds do not conduct electricity (ions are not free to move)
  • Not balancing electrons in half-equations
  • Confusing electrolysis of CuSO4 with Cu electrodes vs inert electrodes (products differ)

Scoring Tips

  • Always write separate half-equations for cathode and anode reactions with electron transfer shown
  • Specify whether electrodes are active (Cu, Ag) or inert (Pt, graphite) as this affects products
  • For electroplating questions, clearly state: cathode = object, anode = plating metal, electrolyte = salt
  • Remember: OILRIG (Oxidation Is Loss, Reduction Is Gain of electrons)

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is dilute H2SO4 added to water during electrolysis?

Pure water is a very poor conductor of electricity. Adding dilute H2SO4 increases the number of H+ and OH− ions, making the solution a better conductor. The acid itself is not consumed in the process.

Why does the colour of CuSO4 solution fade during electrolysis with inert electrodes?

Cu2+ ions (which give the blue colour) are deposited as copper metal at the cathode. Since the anode is inert, no copper dissolves to replace the Cu2+ ions, so the solution gradually becomes colourless and acidic (H2SO4 remains).

How is aluminium extracted by electrolysis?

Aluminium is extracted from purified alumina (Al2O3) dissolved in molten cryolite (Na3AlF6) by electrolysis. Cryolite lowers the melting point from 2050°C to about 950°C. At cathode: Al3+ + 3e− → Al. At anode: 2O2− → O2 + 4e−.