Electrolytic Cells

Electrolytic Cells

An electrolytic cell is a device that uses electrical energy to drive a non-spontaneous chemical reaction. In contrast to a galvanic cell, which produces electrical energy from a spontaneous chemical reaction, an electrolytic cell requires an external source of electrical energy to drive a chemical reaction that would not occur spontaneously. Electrolytic cells are used in a variety of industrial processes, including the production of metals and the purification of water. In an electrolytic cell, a voltage is applied across two electrodes that are immersed in an electrolyte solution. The electrolyte contains ions that can be oxidized or reduced at the electrodes. When a voltage is applied, electrons flow from the negative electrode (the cathode) to the positive electrode (the anode). At the cathode, reduction occurs, and positively charged ions in the electrolyte are reduced to neutral atoms or molecules. At the anode, oxidation occurs, and negatively charged ions in the electrolyte are oxidized to neutral atoms or molecules. The products of the electrolysis reaction depend on the nature of the electrolyte and the voltage applied. For example, if a solution of sodium chloride (NaCl) is electrolyzed, chlorine gas will be produced at the anode, and hydrogen gas will be produced at the cathode. This process is used to produce chlorine gas for industrial purposes. In contrast, if a solution of copper sulfate (CuSO4) is electrolyzed, copper metal will be deposited on the cathode, while sulfuric acid and oxygen gas will be produced at the anode. This process is used to purify copper for use in electrical wiring. Overall, electrolytic cells play an important role in a variety of industrial processes, allowing for the production of metals and the purification of water. By applying an external source of electrical energy, non-spontaneous chemical reactions can be driven, leading to the production of useful products.

electrodes, electrolyte, oxidation, reduction, industrial processes

— Brian Gonzalez

CITATION : "Brian Gonzalez. 'Electrolytic Cells.' Design+Encyclopedia. https://design-encyclopedia.com/define/electrolytic-cells?E=331261 (Accessed on October 14, 2026)"