Explain why,in electrolysis of water,acidified water is used ?
Dear student,
Acidified water is used for two reasons. Firstly, the ions provided by the acid greatly increase the electrical conductivity of the water, and this allows the decomposition of water to occur at a much increased rate. Secondly, the acid provides H+ions, which react, forming hydrogen, at the cathode. An equivalent amount of H+ ions is formed at the anode, and, as a result, the acid is not consumed.
Hope this helps,
Regards
Acidified water is used for two reasons. Firstly, the ions provided by the acid greatly increase the electrical conductivity of the water, and this allows the decomposition of water to occur at a much increased rate. Secondly, the acid provides H+ions, which react, forming hydrogen, at the cathode. An equivalent amount of H+ ions is formed at the anode, and, as a result, the acid is not consumed.
Hope this helps,
Regards