Question

What is an Electrolytic decomposition? Give two uses of an Electrolytic decomposition reaction?

Answer 1

Hint: We know that the electrolytic decomposition reaction can be explained from the name itself. Also, when a compound is broken to its constituent ions it is called a Decomposition reaction.

Complete answer:
As we know that the decomposition reactions occur when energy sources like light, heat or electricity are introduced. This type of reaction is known as electrolytic decomposition reaction. It is also called electrolysis. Electrolysis is the process of conversion of a compound to its ions by introducing electricity to the solution. In this reaction, cathode and anode are involved. There is a branch of science in which purification of metals and its properties are involved. This is called metallurgy. When this purification of metals is done with electricity, it is called electrometallurgy. Electrolysis in metallurgy is applied in the production of aluminium.
Some other examples for electrolytic decomposition reactions used in metallurgy are refining of copper and silver. Recycled silver is recovered through electrolysis which produces crystal silver. There are some other uses for electrolysis. It is used for coating a metal with another and also in electroplating. An electrolytic decomposition reaction can be identified by a reaction in which a single compound is broken into two or more products by the application of electricity.
The process of electrolysis occurs in this reaction. When electricity is passed through a molten compound which is ionic in nature, then the ions of the compound separate into components decomposing the compound. It is used for separating hydrogen and oxygen gas from water. It is also used to separate gases or metals elements from the compound.

Note:
Remember that the reaction simultaneously two processes are occurring, one is decomposition and the other is electrolysis. In electrolytic decomposition reaction, the decomposition or the breaking of compounds occurs due to electrolysis. Electrolysis is the breaking or decomposition of a compound by passing electric current.