(a) Explain electrolysis (b) Classify the following substances as electrolytes and non-electrolytes: Sugar solution: paraffin, suit solution and grape fruit...

Answer Details

(a) Electrolysis is the chemical decomposition of an electrolyte, in its molten state or in aqueous solution, brought about by the passage of a direct electric current through it. During the process the positive ions (cations) move to the cathode and the negative ions (anions) move to the anode, where they are discharged and the substance is broken down into its components.

(b) Classification. A substance is an electrolyte only if, when molten or dissolved, it contains free-moving ions that can carry the current. Sugar dissolves as neutral molecules and paraffin is a covalent non-conductor, so neither provides ions. Common salt dissolves to give \(\text{Na}^{+}\) and \(\text{Cl}^{-}\) ions, and grape fruit juice contains dissolved acids (such as citric and ascorbic acids) that release ions, so both conduct.

Common misconception: a solution is not an electrolyte simply because it is a liquid or tastes of something dissolved. Sugar solution is a liquid and conducts almost no current because sugar stays as whole neutral molecules; it is a non-electrolyte. What matters is whether free ions are present.