Electrolysis

Electrolysis is a process that uses electrical energy to bring about a chemical change in a substance by passing an electric current through an electrolyte. 

The process involves the breaking down of a compound into its constituent elements or the formation of new compounds through the use of electric current.

Key terms used in a simple electrolytic cell

• Electrode is a rod of metal or graphite through which an electric current flows into or out of an electrolyte
• Electrolyte is the ionic compound in a molten or dissolved solution that conducts the electricity
• Anode is the positive electrode of an electrolysis cell
  • Anion is a negatively charged ion which is attracted to the anode
• Cathode is the negative electrode of an electrolysis cell
  • Cation is a positively charged ion which is attracted to the cathode.