Electrolysis of Water: Splitting Water with Electricity
Electrolysis is a chemical process where electric current is used to drive a non-spontaneous reaction. In the electrolysis of water, electrical energy is used to split water molecules into hydrogen and oxygen gases. This experiment showcases the core principle of electrochemical decomposition.
Theory for Class 10 Science
Water by itself is a poor conductor of electricity. To facilitate the process:
- A few drops of dilute sulphuric acid (H₂SO₄) are added.
- The acid provides H⁺ and SO₄²⁻ ions, improving the water’s conductivity.
When a 6V battery is connected to carbon electrodes submerged in the acidified water:
- Hydrogen gas (H₂) is produced at the cathode (–).
- Oxygen gas (O₂) is produced at the anode (+).
Key Points:
- Hydrogen volume is nearly double that of oxygen.
- The sulphate ions do not participate directly; they are spectator ions.
Electrode Reactions:
- At cathode: 2H⁺ + 2e⁻ → H₂
- At anode: 2H₂O → O₂ + 4H⁺ + 4e⁻
Real-Life Applications of Electrolysis
- Producing hydrogen gas for fuel and industry.
- Electroplating metals like gold, silver, and copper.
- Used in sewage and wastewater treatment.
- Essential in extracting metals like aluminium from their ores.
Observations from the Experiment
- Bubbles appear at both electrodes.
- More bubbles at the cathode, indicating more hydrogen gas.
- The gas at the cathode burns with a ‘pop’ sound, confirming hydrogen.
- The volume of hydrogen gas is nearly double that of oxygen.
Summary Table
| Electrode | Reaction | Gas |
|---|---|---|
| Cathode (–) | 2H⁺ + 2e⁻ → H₂ | Hydrogen |
| Anode (+) | 2H₂O → O₂ + 4H⁺ + 4e⁻ | Oxygen |
Experience Electrolysis in the Dencity Virtual Lab
With Dencity, students can perform the electrolysis of water experiment virtually—safely and interactively. Adjust voltage, observe gas formation, and visualize how ions move and react.
This is part of the Class 10 Science curriculum and available on Android, iOS, and desktop via the Dencity app.
No chemicals or wires needed—just pure science!
Dencity for Teachers
Dencity provides the ideal platform for interactive teaching:
- Simulate electrolysis experiments safely in class.
- Create assignments with auto-grading and student tracking.
- Use real-time visual tools to explain electrode processes and ionic movement.
- Facilitate collaborative virtual sessions to explore concepts deeply.
Perfect for Touch-Enabled Smart Panels
Dencity is optimized for interactive classroom panels. Just tap and drag to connect circuits, add acid, or monitor bubbles—making science hands-on and fun.
Get a Demo or Custom Pricing
Ready to empower your classrooms with virtual chemistry labs? Contact us now for a demo and get custom pricing tailored to your school.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is electrolysis?
The use of electricity to drive a chemical reaction that wouldn’t happen on its own. - Why add sulphuric acid to water?
To increase conductivity by adding free ions. - Why is more hydrogen produced than oxygen?
Because water has two hydrogen atoms for every oxygen atom. - What gas burns with a pop?
Hydrogen, when exposed to a flame. - Are SO₄²⁻ ions used in the reaction?
No, they are spectator ions—they just help conduct electricity. - Can I simulate this in the Dencity app?
Yes, including real-time gas formation and bubble observation. - Is this part of Class 10 Science?
Yes, it aligns with CBSE and other major boards. - Can students perform this at home?
Safely, yes—within the Dencity virtual environment. - Is it mobile compatible?
Yes, available on Android, iOS, and desktops. - How can schools adopt Dencity?
Contact us for a demo and custom classroom integration options.
