Electrolysis

IGCSE QUESTIONS SET X (Electrolysis & Mole Calculations)
B6 Sodium chloride is used in making many important chemicals including chlorine and hydrogen.
(a) Write the

of nitrogen, all gas volumes measured at room temperature
and pressure.
(3)
Total / 10
B8 The NASA space shuttle uses fuel cells to generate electricity. The diagram below shows a
hydrogen-oxygen fuel cell.
external circuit
hydrogen in oxygen in
Na+ (aq)
electrolyte
negative electrode positive electrode
Water ]
At the positive electrode, oxygen reacts with water as shown.
(
O2(g) + 2H2O(l) + 4e 4OH(aq)
b
At the negative electrode, hydrogen reacts with hydroxide ions as shown.
)

H2(g) + 2OH (aq) 2H2O(l) + 2e
W
The overall reaction in the fuel cell is the reaction between hydrogen and oxygen to make
h
water.
a
(a) Give one source for hydrogen and one source for oxygen for use in a fuel cell. [2]
t
is the name of the electrolyte used in the fuel cell?
[1]
(c) What type of reaction takes place, reduction or oxidation, at the positive electrode?
Explain your answer. [3]
[1]
(d) A fuel cell uses 240 dm3 of hydrogen. Calculate the volume of oxygen needed, and press
the mass of water formed. All gas volumes measured at room temperature and u
r
e
.
[
2
]
electrode reactions for the electrolysis of molten sodium chloride. [
3
Which electrode reaction is an oxidation? Explain your answer. (
e
)
....................................................................................................................................................... D
e
....................................................................................................................................................... s
c
....................................................................................................................................................... ri
b
....................................................................................................................................................... e
(3) s
o
m
(b) Explain why the electrolysis of aqueous sodium chloride using inert electrodes
e
gives hydrogen.
a
d
v
....................................................................................................................................................... a
(1) n
t
(c) Explain the three stages in the purification of water supplies. a
g
e
....................................................................................................................................................... s
a
....................................................................................................................................................... n
d
....................................................................................................................................................... d
(3) is
a
(d) Hydrogen is used to manufacture ammonia, NH3. Calculate the volume of hydrogen d
v
needed to react completely with 240 dm3 a
n
t
a
g
e
s
o
f
u
si
n
g a fuel cell to generate electricity.
[3]
Total / 10
IGCSE QUESTIONS SET X (Electrolysis)
A5 Electrolysis is the decomposition of a liquid by the passage of an electrical current.
(a) Aqueous copper(II) sulphate contains the following ions, Cu2+, H+, OH and SO42.
Aqueous copper(II) sulphate can be electrolysed using inert electrodes.
The electrode reactions are represented below.
cathode Cu2+ + 2e Cu
anode 4OH O2 + 2H2O + 4e
(i) Explain why copper, not hydrogen, is formed at the cathode.
...................................................................................................................................
...................................................................................................................................
(ii) Explain why the formation of oxygen at the anode is an example of oxidation.
...................................................................................................................................
...................................................................................................................................
(iii) The electrolysis of aqueous copper(II) sulphate using copper electrodes has a different
anode reaction.
Give the equation for the electrode reaction at the anode.
................................................................................................................................... [3]
(b) Molten lead(II) bromide decomposes when an electric current is passed through it.
(i) Explain why solid lead(II) bromide will not conduct electricity but molten lead(II)
bromide will.
...................................................................................................................................
...................................................................................................................................
...................................................................................................................................
(ii) Construct the equations for the two electrode reactions.
cathode .....................................................................................................................
anode ........................................................................................................................
[4]
Total / 7
IGCSE QUESTIONS SET X (Electrolysis, separation & analysis )
A5 Chlorine, hydrogen and sodium hydroxide are made by the electrolysis of concentrated aqueous
sodium chloride.
(a) Aqueous sodium chloride contains the following ions, Na+, H+, OH and Cl .
Concentrated aqueous sodium chloride can be electrolysed using inert electrodes. The
electrode reactions are represented below.
cathode 2H+ + 2e H2
anode 2Cl Cl 2 + 2e
(i)
purification of water.
..........................................................................................................................................
......................................................................................................................................[1]
(d) Describe an advantage of using hydrogen as a possible fuel in the future.
..........................................................................................................................................
......................................................................................................................................[1]
(e) Name the products, if any, of the reaction of chlorine with
(i) aqueous potassium fluoride,
...................................................................................................................................
(ii) aqueous sodium bromide.
................................................................................................................................... [2]
Total / 8
[3]
+
A5 (a) Concentrated aqueous sodium chloride contains H and OH ions.
(
c
(i) Give the formulae of two other ions present in concentrated aqueous sodium )
chloride. A
l
..............................................................................................................................[1] u
m
(ii) Concentrated aqueous sodium chloride is electrolysed using inert graphite i
electrodes. n
Name the product formed at each electrode. i
u
product at anode ...................................................................................................... m
product at cathode ...............................................................................................[2
Explain why hydrogen, not sodium, is formed at the cathode. is
e
................................................................................................................................... x
tr
a
...................................................................................................................................
c
t
(ii) Suggest why, as the electrolysis proceeds, the concentration of sodium
e
hydroxide in the electrolyte increases.
d
c
................................................................................................................................... o
m
................................................................................................................................... m
[2] e
(b) Describe a chemical test for each of the gases produced during the electrolysis of r
concentrated aqueous sodium chloride. ci
(i) chlorine a
ll
................................................................................................................................... y
fr
................................................................................................................................... o
m
(ii) hydrogen
a
................................................................................................................................... n
a
................................................................................................................................... l
[2] u
m
(c) Describe the use of chlorine in the] i
n
(b) Impure copper can be purified by electrolysis. i
u
Draw a labelled diagram of the electrolytic cell that can be used to purify copper. m
o
r
e
b
y
e
l
e
c
tr
o
ly
sis.
(i) Name an ore containing aluminium.
..............................................................................................................................[1]
(ii) Name the element used as the anode in this process.
..............................................................................................................................[1]
[Total: 8]
IGCSE QUESTIONS SET X (Electrolysis and calculation of electrolysis)
A3 Electrolysis involves the decomposition of a

.............................................................................................................................. [1]
(iii) The electrolysis of dilute aqueous sodium chloride liberates oxygen at the anode.
Suggest why the electrolysis of concentrated aqueous sodium chloride liberates
chlorine rather than oxygen.
..................................................................................................................................
.............................................................................................................................. [1]
(b) Aqueous copper(II) sulfate was electrolysed using copper electrodes. The copper anode
lost mass as copper(II) ions were formed and the copper cathode gained mass as copper
atoms were formed.
(i) State one industrial application of this electrolysis.
.............................................................................................................................. [1]
(ii) The results of an experiment involving the electrolysis of aqueous copper(II) sulfate are
shown below
.
temperature of current used time of electrolysis mass of copper formed at

electrolyte / C / amps /s the cathode / g
20 1.0 1000 0.329
20 2.0 1000 0.658
20 2.0 2000 1.320
25 2.0 2000 1.320
30 1.0 1000 0.329
Use the information in the table to describe how each of the variables affects the
mass of copper formed at the cathode.
temperature ..............................................................................................................
..................................................................................................................................
current ......................................................................................................................
..................................................................................................................................
time ..........................................................................................................................
.............................................................................................................................. [3]
[Total: 9]
compound by the passage of an electric current.
(a) (i) Complete the table, which relates to the electrolysis of different solutions using inert
electrodes
electrolyte ions in product at product at

electrolyte anode cathode
dilute aqueous K+, H+, OH
oxygen hydrogen
potassium nitrate and NO3
concentrated
Na+, H+,
aqueous sodium chlorine hydrogen
OH and Cl
chloride
dilute aqueous Cu2+, SO42,
copper(II) sulfate H+ and OH ........................ ........................
dilute sulfuric acid
....................
oxygen hydrogen
....................
[3]
(ii) Explain why the electrolysis of concentrated aqueous sodium chloride
liberates hydrogen rather than sodium at the cathode.
..................................................................................................................................
A1 (a) A student tried to pass an electric current through some solids and liquids.
The six experiments are represented by the diagrams below.
Zinc sulphate zinc ethanol
A B C
Distilled water solid copper(II) sulphate poly(ethene)
D E F
(i) In which experiments will the bulb light?
...............................................................................................................................[2]
(ii) Give the name of an electrolyte shown in the diagram.
...............................................................................................................................[1]
(iii) In which experiment will oxygen be produced?
...............................................................................................................................[1]
(b) The following diagram represents the electrolysis of molten substance, X.
(i) Label the anode and cathode on the diagram.
(ii) Suggest the name of substance X.
...................................................................................................................................
(iii) State the formula of the cation in X.
...................................................................................................................................
(iv) Explain why substance X conducts electricity when molten, but not when solid.
...................................................................................................................................
...................................................................................................................................
...................................................................................................................................
[5]
Tota
l/9
B9 (a) Brine is an impure solution of sodium chloride. The main impurity in brine is calcium chloride.
It is removed by reacting the brine with sodium carbonate.
CaCl2(aq) + Na2CO3(aq) CaCO3(s) + 2NaCl(aq)
(i) State the name for this type of reaction.
...................................................................................................................................
(ii)
.
rod 1 rod 2 voltmeter reading / V
magnesium X 2.72
magnesium Y 0.78
magnesium Z 1.10
Place the metals in order of reactivity
most reactive magnesium
least reactive [1]
(c) A student places a rod of magnesium in aqueous silver nitrate.
(i) Write an ionic equation, with state symbols, for the reaction which happened.
...................................................................................................................................
(ii) What would you expect to see after the reaction had been taking place for
some time?
...................................................................................................................................
...............................................................................................................................[3]
Total / 5
B10 The diagram shows a cell for purifying copper.
Pure copper anode Impure copper anode
electrolyte
(a) Describe what you would observe during this electrolysis and write the equations for the
reactions at the electrodes. [3]
(b) The electrodes and the electrolyte conduct electricity.
(i) Explain how the structure of metals allows copper electrodes to conduct electricity. [1]
(ii) Explain why solid copper(II) sulphate does not conduct electricity but an aqueous
solution of copper(II) sulphate does conduct. [2]
(c) Describe how the apparatus shown in the diagram could be modified in order to electroplate an
iron object, such as a knife, with nickel. [2]
(d) Bronze is an alloy of copper and tin. Bronze is less malleable than pure copper. Use ideas about
the structure of metals and alloys to explain why bronze is less malleable than pure copper.
[2]
2 The diagram shows an experiment to pass electricity through lead bromide.

Electricity has no effect on solid lead bromide.
d.c. power
supply
Construct an ionic equation for the reaction between calcium ions and carbonate ions to produce
calcium carbonate.
...................................................................................................................................
(iii) Suggest how the calcium carbonate is removed from the mixture.
...................................................................................................................................
[3]
(b) Chlorine is manufactured by the electrolysis of concentrated sodium chloride.
(i) Write equations for both of the electrode reactions.
...................................................................................................................................
...................................................................................................................................
(ii) Calculate the maximum volume of chlorine, at r.t.p., which can be obtained from 175.5 kg
sodium chloride.
[5]
(c) Chlorine reacts with methane to produce chloromethane, CH3Cl.
Draw a dot and cross diagram to show the bonding in chloromethane.
You only need to show outer (valence) electrons.
[2]
[10 marks]
A5 The diagram shows a cell that can be used to make electrical energy.
voltmeter
V
rod of metal X, Y or Z
magnesium
rod electrolyte
(a) Explain why distilled water is not used as the electrolyte.
......................................................................................................................................[1]
(b) This table shows the results when rods of three metals, X, Y and Z, are used in separate
experiments.
All the metals are less reactive than magnesium
bulb
LEAD
BROMIDE
TOXIC
heat
(a) (i) Clearly label the electrodes on the diagram. [1]
(ii) Suggest a suitable material to make the electrodes.
[1]
(b) Give two observations expected when the lead bromide is heated to melting point.
1.
2. [2]
(c) State two different safety precautions when carrying out this experiment.
1.
2. [2]
[Total: 6]
(e) An electric current can also be generated by a simple electrochemical cell such as the one shown.
.....
e V .....
.....
.....
magnesium copper .....
.....
.....
.....
.....
.....
.....
electrolyte .....
(magnesium sulphate) .....
.....
.....
.....
.....
.....
(i) Explain why the flow of electrons is in the direction shown in the diagram. .....
.....
(ii) Suggest why silver nitrate would not be a good electrolyte to use in this cell.
.....
.....
.....
.....
IGCSE QUESTIONS SET X (Electrolysis) .....
B7 Copper is purified by the electrolysis of aqueous copper(II) sulfate using copper electrodes. .....
.....
(a) Explain how this process is carried out in the laboratory and give relevant equations for ...
the electrode reactions.
.....
.......................................................................................................................................... .....
.....
.......................................................................................................................................... .....
.....
.......................................................................................................................................... .....
.....
.......................................................................................................................................... .....
.....
.......................................................................................................................................... .....
........................................................................................ (
b
...................................................................................................................................... [4] )
A
q
u
e
o
u
s
c
o
p
p
e
r(
II
)
s
ul
f
a
t
e
c
a
n
al
s
o
b
e
el
e
ct
r
ol
y
s
e
d
u
si
n
g
c
a
r
b
o
n
el
e
ct
r
o
d
e
s.
(i) Write an equation for the reaction which takes place at the anode in this el
electrolysis. e
m
.............................................................................................................................. [1] en
ts.
(ii) Explain why the colour of the copper(II) sulfate solution fades during this
electrolysis. ...........
...........
.................................................................................................................................. ...........
...........
.............................................................................................................................. [1] ...........
...........
(c) Copper is a transition element. ...........
...........
(i) Name two transition elements, or compounds of transition elements, which are ...........
used as catalysts. For each catalyst name an industrial product made using the ...........
catalyst. ...........
.........
..................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................
..................................................................................................................................
[
..................................................................................................................................
[Tota
..............................................................................................................................
1
[2]
(ii) Other than acting as catalysts state two properties which are specific to transition
IGCSE QUESTIONS SET X (Electrolysis, analysis and Reactivity of metals)

6 The electroplating of iron with chromium involves four stages.
[1]
(d) The information below shows the reactivity of chromium, copper and iron with warm
hydrochloric acid.
chromium few bubbles of gas produced every second
copper no bubbles of gas produced
iron many bubbles of gas produced every second

Put these three metals in order of their reactivity with hydrochloric acid.
most reactive
Least reactive
[1]
IGCSE QUESTIONS SET X (Electrolysis and Calculations)
7 Aluminium is extracted by the electrolysis of aluminium oxide dissolved in cryolite.

positive electrode

A A A
negative electrode electrolyte (aluminium
oxide dissolved
B in molten cryolite)
D
steel case
C
molten aluminium
(a) What information in the diagram shows that aluminium is more dense than the
electrolyte?
[1]
(b) What form of carbon is used for the electrodes in this electrolysis?
[1]
(c) Which letter in the diagram, A, B, C or D, represents the anode?
[1]
(d) Suggest why electrolysis is used to extract aluminium rather than

reduction using carbon.
[1]
(e) Oxygen gas is released at the anode.
(i) Where does this oxygen come from?
[1]
(ii) The oxygen reacts with the carbon anode to form carbon dioxide.
What is the formula of carbon dioxide?
[1]
(iii) Why does the anode decrease in size during electrolysis?
[1]
(f) Each electrolysis cell makes 212 kg of aluminium per day from 400 kg of aluminium oxide.
Calculate how much aluminium can be made from 1 tonne (1000 kg) of aluminium oxide.
[1]
(g) Complete the following sentences about the electrolysis of aluminium oxide using
words from the following list.
atoms gaseous molten solid ions molecules
Aluminium oxide conducts electricity when it is because it
contains which are free to move. [2]
[Total: 10]
IGCSE QUESTIONS SET X (Electrolysis & Calculations, Polymer)
7 Chlorine is produced by the electrolysis of concentrated sodium chloride solution.
An electrolysis cell for producing chlorine is shown below.
chlorine
1. The iron object is cleaned with sulphuric acid, then washed with water.
2. The iron is plated with copper.
3. It is then plated with nickel to prevent corrosion.
4. It is then plated with chromium.
(a) The equation for stage 1 is
Fe + H2SO4 FeSO4 + H2
(i) Write a word equation for this reaction.
[2]
(ii) Describe a test for the gas given off in this reaction.
test
result [2]
(b) The diagram shows how iron is electroplated with copper.
_
+
rod of
pure iron object
copper
copper(II) sulphate
solution
(i) Choose a word from the list below which describes the iron object.
Put a ring around the correct answer.
anion anode cathode cation [1]
(ii) What is the purpose of the copper(II) sulphate solution?
[1]
(iii) Describe what happens during the electroplating to
the iron object,
the rod of pure copper. [2]
(iv) Describe a test for copper(II) ions. test
result
[3]
(c) Suggest why chromium is used to electroplate articles.
concentrated
solution of
sodium chloride
graphite anode
and m
mixture of mercury sodiu
mercury cathode recirculated
mercury
(a) Seawater is a source of sodium chloride.
A sample of seawater had the following composition:
sodium chloride
5.6 g
magnesium chloride 1.4 g
magnesium sulphate
1.2 g
water 191.8 g
Calculate the percentage of sodium chloride in this sample of seawater.
[1]
(b) The solution of sodium chloride used for electrolysis is about ten times
more concentrated than in seawater.
State how you could increase the concentration of the salts in seawater.
......................................................................................................................................[1]
(c) What happens to the concentration of the sodium chloride as electrolysis takes place?
......................................................................................................................................[1]
(d) At which electrode is chlorine produced during the electrolysis of concentrated

sodium chloride solution?
......................................................................................................................................[1]
(e) State one property that graphite must have if it is to be used as an electrode.
......................................................................................................................................[1]
(f) What property of mercury allows it to be recirculated easily?
......................................................................................................................................[1]
(g) Sodium is also produced during this electrolysis.
The sodium dissolves in the mercury.

The mixture of sodium and mercury then reacts with water.
Complete the word equation for the reaction of sodium with water.
sodium + water ..................................................... + ......................... [2]

(h) The graph shows the world production of chlorine during the 20th century.
35
3
millions of tonnes per year
25
production of chlorine /
20
15
10
0
1900 1910 1920 1930 1940 1950 1960 1970 1980 1990
year
Over which ten year period did chlorine production increase most rapidly?
......................................................................................................................................[1]
(i) Chloroethene molecules join together to form poly(chloroethene).
H Cl H Cl H Cl H Cl H Cl H Cl H Cl H Cl
C C C C C C C C
+ + +
C C C C C C C C
H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H
chloroethene part of a poly(chloroethene) molecule
(i) What type of chemical reaction is shown in this equation?
........................................................................................................................................[2]
(ii) Poly(chloroethene) is used as an electrical insulator.

What is meant by the term electrical insulator ?
........................................................................................................................................[1]
Total / 12
6 Aluminium is extracted from its ore, bauxite.
The bauxite is purified to give aluminium oxide.

Electrolysis is then used to extract the aluminium from aluminium oxide dissolved in cryolite.
positive electrode
+
(graphite)

aluminium oxide dissolved

negative electrode in molten cryolite
(graphite)
molten aluminium collecting

steel case on the bottom
The melting point of pure aluminium oxide is 2070 C.

The melting point of the mixture of aluminium oxide and cryolite is about 1000 C.
(a) Suggest
aluminium oxide 120g

iron(III) oxide 30g silica
40g
titanium(IV) oxide 10g
Calculate the percentage of aluminium oxide in this sample of bauxite.
[1]
(j) Aluminium is a metal in Group III of the Periodic Table.

State three physical properties which are typical of most metals.
1 .......................................................................................................................................
2 .......................................................................................................................................
3 ....................................................................................................................................... [3]
Total / 14
IGCSE QUESTIONS SET X (Electrolysis & Calculations, Hydrogen)
6 The electrolysis of a concentrated solution of sodium chloride, provides us with chemicals.
(a) Sodium chloride has an ionic giant structure.
Which one of the following is a correct description of a property of sodium chloride.
Tick one box.
sodium chloride has a low melting point

sodium chloride conducts electricity when it is solid
sodium chloride has a high boiling point
sodium chloride is insoluble in water
[1]
(b) (i) Explain what is meant by the term electrolysis.
[1]
(ii) At which electrode is hydrogen produced during the electrolysis of aqueous

sodium chloride?
[1]
(iii) Name a suitable substance that can be used for the electrodes.
[1]
(c) (i) State the name of the particle which is added to a chlorine atom to make a chloride
ion.
[1]
(ii) Describe a test for chloride ions.
test
result [2]
(d) If chlorine is allowed to mix with sodium hydroxide, sodium chlorate(I), NaOC1 is formed.
Balance the equation for this reaction.
C12 + NaOH NaC1 + NaOC1 + H2O

[1]
(e) One tonne (1 000 kg) of a commercial solution of sodium hydroxide produced by
electrolysis contains the following masses of compounds.
compound mass of compound kg/ tonne
sodium hydroxide 510
sodium chloride 10
sodium chlorate(V) 9
water 471
total 1000
(i) How many kilograms of sodium hydroxide will be present in 5 tonnes of the
solution?
[1]
(ii) All the water from one tonne of impure sodium hydroxide is evaporated.
What would the approximate percentage of the remaining impurities be?
Put a ring around the correct answer.
0.036% 3.6% 36% 96% [1]
(f) The hydrogen obtained by electrolysis can be used in the manufacture of margarine.
H H H H H H H H
Ni
H C C C C CO2H + H2 H C C C C CO2H
H H H H H H
n n
(i) Complete the following sentences about this reaction using words from
the list.
catal
yst
inhib
itor
mon
omer
ic
satur
ated
unsatu
rated
Hydrogen gas is bubbled through carbon
compounds using a nickel which speeds up the
reaction.
The margarines produced are compounds. [3]

why electrolysis is used to extract aluminium from aluminium oxide rather than
reduction using carbon.
..........................................................................................................................................
......................................................................................................................................[1]
(b) How is the electrolyte of aluminium oxide and cryolite kept molten?
......................................................................................................................................[1]
(c) What property of graphite makes it suitable for use as electrodes?
......................................................................................................................................[1]
(d) State the name given to the negative electrode.

......................................................................................................................................[1]
(e) The melting point of steel is about 1500 C.

Suggest two reasons why molten aluminium oxide is not used by
itself in this electrolysis.
..........................................................................................................................................
......................................................................................................................................[2]
(f) During the electrolysis, hot oxygen is formed at the positive electrodes.
Suggest why the positive electrodes have to be replaced frequently.
..........................................................................................................................................
......................................................................................................................................[2]
(g) Aluminium is formed at the negative electrode.
Complete the following equation for the reaction at the negative electrode.
Al3+ + Al
[1]
(h) Why do aluminium ions move towards the negative electrode?
......................................................................................................................................[1]
(i) A sample of bauxite ore had the following composition:
(ii) State one other use of hydrogen.
[1]
Total / 14
IGCSE QUESTIONS SET X (Structure, Electrolysis, Organic compounds)

6 The diagram shows the structure of lead bromide.

Br Br Br Br
Pb2+ Pb2+

Br Br Br Br
Pb2+ Pb2+

Br Br Br Br
Pb2+ Pb2+
(a) What is the simplest formula for lead bromide?
[1]
(b) What type of structure and bonding is present in lead bromide?
Choose two words from the following:

atomic covalent giant ionic metallic molecular
[2]
(c) Lead bromide is electrolysed using the apparatus shown below.
A B
electrodes
molten lead bromide

C
heat
(i) Which letter, A, B or C represents the cathode?
[1]
(ii) State the name of a metal which can be used for the electrodes.
[1]
(iii) Why does lead bromide have to be molten for electrolysis to occur?
[1]
(iv) State the name of the products formed during this electrolysis;
at the anode,
at the cathode. [2]

(d) A student bubbled chlorine gas through an aqueous solution of sodium bromide.
(i) Complete the equation for this reaction.
Cl2 + 2NaBr ............ + 2NaCl

chlorine sodium bromine sodium
bromide chloride
[1]
(ii) What colour is the solution at the end of the reaction?
[1]
(iii) An aqueous solution of iodine does not react with a solution of sodium bromide.
Explain why there is no reaction.
[1]
(e) Bromine becomes decolourised when it reacts with ethene.
(i) Draw the structure of ethene showing all atoms and bonds.
[1]
(ii) Which one of the following, A, B, C or D, shows the correct structure of the product
formed when bromine reacts with ethene?
H Br Br Br H Br Br Br
H C C Br H C C H H C C H H C C H
H H H H H H
A B C D
answer [1]
3 Lead bromide was placed in a tube and connected to an electrical circuit as shown below.
dc power supply
bulb
LEAD
BROMIDE
TOXIC
heat
The lead bromide was heated until molten. A brown gas was given off.
(a) State one other expected observation.
[1]
(b) (i) Suggest a suitable material for the electrodes.
(ii) Indicate on the diagram the negative electrode (cathode). [2]
(c) Name the brown gas. At what electrode will the gas be given off?
name
electrode [2]
(d) Why is this experiment carried out in a fume cupboard?

[1]
Total / 6
IGCSE QUESTIONS SET X (Electrolysis & Tests)
2 The diagram shows the apparatus used to find out the effect of an electric current on a
concentrated aqueous solution of sodium chloride.
(a) On the diagram label the electrodes [1]
(b) Give three observations when the circuit is switched on.
3 [3]
(c) (i) Name the product at the positive electrode (anode).
[1]
(ii) State a test for this product and the result of the test.
test
result [2]
1 The diagram shows the effect of passing electricity through concentrated hydrochloric acid.
chlorine hydrogen
(a) Label the diagram by completing the boxes. [3]
(b) Name this process.
[1]
(c) Give a test for chlorine.
test
result [2]
2 Concentrated hydrochloric acid can be electrolysed using the apparatus shown.
(a) Label the position of the electrodes on the diagram. [1]
(b) Give two observations when the circuit is switched on.
2 [2]
(c) (i) Name the product at the positive electrode.
[1]
(ii) State a test for this product and the result of the test.
test
result [2]
[Total: 6]
IGCSE QUESTIONS SET X (Electrolysis & Test)
6 Concentrated hydrochloric acid was broken down by the passage of electricity using this apparatus.
gas A gas B
concentrat
ed hydrochloric
acid
electrodes
+

(a) What is the name of this process?
..................................................................................................................................... [1]
(b) Suggest a suitable material from which to make the electrodes.
..................................................................................................................................... [1]
(c) Gas A is chlorine. Give a test for chlorine.
test ..................................................................................................................................
.. result ...........................................................................................................................
[2]
(d) Gas B pops when tested with a lighted splint. What is gas B?
..................................................................................................................................... [1]
[Total: 5]
IGCSE chemistry SET X (Electrolysis & Test)
2 A metal cup can be coated in silver by electrolysis. The cup must be very clean and also rotated
during the process, which is known as electroplating.
metal electrode
cup
electrolyte
(a) Should the metal cup be the anode or the cathode?
......................................................................................................................................[1]
(b) Identify the metal from which the electrode is made.
......................................................................................................................................[1]
(c) Suggest a suitable electrolyte that could be used to electroplate this cup.
......................................................................................................................................[2]
(d) Suggest why the cup must be
(i) very clean, ................................................................................................................
...............................................................................................................................[1]
(ii) rotated during the electrolysis. ..................................................................................
...............................................................................................................................[1]
Total / 6
IGCSE chemistry SET X (Electrolysis & Reactivity series)
6 The position of aluminium in the reactivity series of metals is shown below.
magnesium
aluminium
zinc
copper
(a) Aluminium is extracted by the electrolysis of its molten oxide.
waste gases
carbon anode (+)
carbon mixture of aluminium

900 oC oxide and cryolite
cathode ()
aluminium
(i) Name the main ore of aluminium.
[1]
(ii) Why does the molten electrolyte contain cryolite?
[1]
(iii) Oxygen is produced at the positive electrode (anode). Name another gas which is
given off at this electrode.
[1]
(b) Aluminium reacts very slowly with aqueous copper(II) sulphate.
2Al(s) + 3CuSO4(aq) Al2(SO4)3(aq) + 3Cu(s)
(i) Which of the two metals has the greater tendency to form ions?
[1]
(ii) Describe what you would see when this reaction occurs.
[1]
(iii) Explain why aluminium reacts so slowly.

[1]
(c) Complete the following table by writing reaction or no reaction in the spaces provided.
oxide type of oxide reaction with acid reaction with alkali
magnesium basic
[2]
aluminium amphoteric
(d) Predict the

equations for the decomposition of the following aluminium compounds.
(i) Al(OH)3 + [2]
(ii) aluminium nitrate + +
[2]
IGCSE chemistry SET X (Metal, Oxygen & Oxides)
5 (a) Titanium is produced by the reduction of its chloride. This is heated with magnesium in an inert
atmosphere of argon.
TiCl4 + 2Mg Ti + 2MgCl2
(i) Explain why it is necessary to use argon rather than air.
[1]
(ii) Name another metal that would reduce titanium chloride to titanium.
[1]
(iii) Suggest how you could separate the metal, titanium, from the soluble salt magnesium
chloride.
[2]
(b) Titanium is very resistant to corrosion. One of its uses is as an electrode in the cathodic
protection of large steel structures from rusting.
power
+
steel oil rig
which is cathode
titanium
anode
sea water contains
H+(aq), OH(aq),
Na+(aq), Cl(aq)
(i) Define oxidation in terms of electron transfer.
[1]
(ii) The steel oil rig is the cathode. Name the gas formed at this electrode.
[1]
(iii) Name the two gases formed at the titanium anode.
and [2]
(iv) Explain why the oil rig does not rust.
[2]
(v) Another way of protecting steel from corrosion is sacrificial protection.
Give two differences between sacrificial protection and cathodic protection.
[2]
[Total: 12]
IGCSE chemistry SET X (Electrolysis)
6 Aluminium is extracted by the electrolysis of a molten mixture that contains alumina, which is aluminium
oxide, Al2O3.
(a) The ore of aluminium is bauxite. This contains alumina, which is amphoteric, and
iron(III) oxide, which is basic. The ore is heated with aqueous sodium hydroxide.
Complete the following sentences.
The dissolves to give a solution of
The does not dissolve and can be removed by [4]
(b) Complete the labelling of the diagram.
waste gases
carbon anode (+)

.......................
....................... () mixture of aluminium

oxide and .........................
................................
temperature is .........................
[4]
3+ 2-
(c) The ions that are involved in the electrolysis are Al and O .
(i) Write an equation for the reaction at the cathode.
[2]
(ii) Explain how carbon dioxide is formed at the anode.
[2]
(d) Give an explanation for each of the following.
(i) Aluminium is used extensively in the manufacture of aircraft.
[1]
(ii) Aluminium is used to make food containers.
[2]
(iii) Aluminium electricity cables have a steel core.
[1]
[Total: 16]
3 Copper is purified by electrolysis.
(a) Complete the following.
The positive electrode (anode) is made from
The negative electrode (cathode) is made from
The electrolyte is aqueous [3]
(b) Write an ionic equation for the reaction at the positive electrode (anode).
[2]
(c) (i) Give two reasons why copper is used,
in electric wiring,
[2]
in cooking utensils.
[2]
(ii) Give another use of copper.
[1]
[Total: 10]
2 The results of experiments on electrolysis using inert electrodes are given in the table.
Complete the table; the first line has been completed as an example.
electrolyte change at negative change at positive change to

electrode electrode electrolyte
molten lead(II) lead formed bromine formed used up

bromide
potassium formed iodine formed used up
dilute aqueous
sodium chloride
aqueous copper(II)
sulfate
hydrogen formed bromine formed potassium hydroxide

formed
[Total: 8]
10. Mary electrolyses a solution of potassium chloride.
She keeps the current constant.
3
The experiment gives off 20 cm of gas in 5 minutes.
How much gas is given off in 1 minute?
......................................................................................................................................................
..................................................................................................................................................[1]
[Total: 1]
11. Potassium chloride is made of ions.
Solid potassium chloride does not conduct electricity.
Melted potassium chloride does conduct electricity.
Why does potassium chloride start to conduct when it is melted?
......................................................................................................................................................
..................................................................................................................................................[2]
[Total: 2]
9. (a) Potassium chloride is made of ions.
Solid potassium chloride does not conduct electricity.
Melted potassium chloride does conduct electricity.
Why does potassium chloride start to conduct when it is melted?
............................................................................................................................................
........................................................................................................................................[2]
(b) Arthur electrolyses a solution of potassium chloride.
He expects potassium to form at the cathode, but something else happens.
What happens? Explain your answer.
............................................................................................................................................
........................................................................................................................................[3]
[Total: 5]
12 The electrolysis of dilute sulfuric acid makes hydrogen and oxygen.
Look at the diagram.
It shows the apparatus used in the electrolysis of dilute sulfuric acid.
oxygen
hydrogen
-ve + ve
(a) Laura wants to test for hydrogen gas.
Write down the test she should use and the result she should expect.
test ............................................................................................................................................
result .....................................................................................................................................[2]
(b) What is the name of the positive electrode?
Put a ring around the correct word.
anode
anion
cathode
cation
[1] [Total: 3]
13 Aluminium is made by the electrolysis of molten aluminium oxide.
+
_
positive electrode
negative electrode
aluminium oxide
liquid aluminium
aluminium
(a) What is the name of an ore that contains aluminium?
Choose from the list.

bauxite
haematite
limestone
salt
answer ...................................................................................................................................[1]
(b) During electrolysis, aluminium oxide breaks down.
Aluminium and oxygen are made.
Write a word equation for this reaction.
...............................................................................................................................................[1]
[Total: 2]

5 Hannah investigates the electrolysis of aqueous potassium sulfate.
Look at the apparatus she uses.
X Z
ve + ve
(a) Look at the table. It shows some of the names of the apparatus used.
Finish the table.
name of apparatus letter
anode
cathode
test tube
[3]
(b) There are bubbles of gas made at both electrodes.
What are the names of the two gases made during this electrolysis?
Choose from the list.
carbon dioxide
hydrogen
nitrogen
oxygen
sulfur dioxide
answer ............................................................ and ............................................................ [2]
[Total: 5]
12 This question is about electrolysis.
(a) Draw a straight line to match each word with its correct meaning.
One has been done for you.
word meaning
anion positive electrode
anode negative ion
cathode negative electrode
cation liquid that conducts electricity
electrolyte positive ion

[3]
(b) Look at the diagram.

It shows how aluminium is made during electrolysis.
positive electrode

insulation
negative electrode
electrolyte
tapping hole
Write about how the aluminium is made using this equipment.
Your answer should include
what chemicals are used
what is made at each electrode.
...................................................................................................................................................
...................................................................................................................................................
...................................................................................................................................................
...............................................................................................................................................[3]
[Total: 6]
11 Azhar does an electrolysis experiment.
He uses copper(II) sulfate solution.
Look at the apparatus he uses.
dc supply
+
copper(II) sulfate solution
Azhar uses copper electrodes.
(a) Look at this list of ions.
Cu2+
H+
OH
SO42
All these ions are in copper(II) sulfate solution.
Write down one ion that is attracted towards the negative
electrode. Choose from the list.
answer ..................................................................................................................................
[1]
(b) Which two of the following observations are correct?
Put a tick () next to each of the two correct answers.
The positive electrode gets plated with copper.
A colourless gas is made at the negative electrode.
The blue colour of the electrolyte becomes colourless.

The negative electrode gains mass.
The positive electrode loses mass.

[2]
(c) Azhar decides to replace copper(II) sulfate solution with solid copper(II) sulfate.
Electrolysis does not happen.
Explain why.
...................................................................................................................................................
...............................................................................................................................................[1]
[Total: 4]
14 Alwin investigates the electrolysis of dilute sulfuric acid.
gas Y oxygen
dilute sulfuric acid
carbon cathode
ve +ve
(a) What is the name of gas Y made at the cathode?
............................................................................................................................................ [1]
(b) Look at the list.
It shows the particles in dilute sulfuric acid.

H+
H2O
OH
SO42
Which particle reacts at the anode to make
oxygen? Choose from the list.
answer .............................................................. [1]
[Total:
2]
13 Look at the diagram. It shows how aluminium is made during electrolysis.
positive electrode

insulation
negative electrode
electrolyte
tapping hole
(a) Write about how the aluminium is made using this equipment.
Your answer should include
what chemicals are used
what is made at each electrode.
...................................................................................................................................................
...................................................................................................................................................
...................................................................................................................................................
...............................................................................................................................................[3]
(b) There is a higher percentage of aluminium compounds than iron compounds in the Earths
crust.
However, aluminium is much more expensive than iron.
Explain why.
...............................................................................................................................................[1]
[Total: 4]
11 Azhar does an electrolysis experiment.
He uses copper(II) sulfate solution.
dc supply
+
copper(II) sulfate solution
Azhar uses copper electrodes.
(a) Look at this list of ions.
Cu2+
H+
OH
SO42
All these ions are in copper(II) sulfate solution.
Write down one ion that is attracted towards the negative
electrode. Choose from the list.
answer ..................................................................................................................................
[1]
(b) Which two of the following observations are correct?
Put a tick () next to each of the two correct answers.
The positive electrode gets plated with copper.
A colourless gas is made at the negative electrode.

The blue colour of the electrolyte becomes colourless.
The negative electrode gains mass.
The positive electrode loses mass.

[2]
(c) Azhar decides to replace copper(II) sulfate solution with solid copper(II) sulfate.
Electrolysis does not happen.
Explain why.
...................................................................................................................................................
...............................................................................................................................................[1]
[Total: 4]
7 This question is about electrolysis.
Look at the diagram.
It shows the apparatus needed for the electrolysis of molten (liquid) lead bromide.
dc power supply
+
carbon cathode carbon anode
molten (liquid)
ceramic crucible lead bromide
heat
Look at the symbol equation. It shows how lead bromide is broken down during electrolysis.
PbBr2 Pb + Br2
(a) Molten lead bromide is electrolysed.
(i) Write down the name of one product of this electrolysis.
.................................................................................................................................... [1]
(ii) Two factors affect how much product is made in this electrolysis.
One factor is the current used.
Write down the other factor that affects how much product is made.
.................................................................................................................................... [1]
(b)
Electrolysis involves the movement of ions.
Molten (liquid) lead bromide can be electrolysed but solid lead bromide cannot.
Explain why.
...................................................................................................................................................
...................................................................................................................................................
............................................................................................................................................ [2]
[Total: 4]
Structured questions:
13.Choose from the words, the term most appropriate for the descriptions below:
Rheostat, battery, ammeter, platinum, voltmeter, copper, cell
a) A source of electricity
1
b) A collection of cells 1
c) An electrical device for measuring current

1
d) A device for keeping current constant

1
e) An inert electrode 1
Draw an electrolysis circuit incorporating all of these electrical devices.

1
14.The table below gives information about four substances, A, B, C and D, when they are
solid and when they are molten.
Solid Molten
Appearance Does the Does the Product at Product at
Substance
solid melt the anode the cathode
conduct? conduct?
A Yellow solid No No None None
B White solid No Yes Bromine Lead metal
C Pink solid Yes Yes gas None
D Black solid Yes Yes None none
None
a) Suggest possible identities for A, B, C and D.
4
b) Is B a conductor, or an electrolyte?
1
c) Is D a conductor, or an electrolyte?
1
d) What type of bonding is present in A?

1
e) What type of bonding is present in B?

1
15.Draw a simple electrical circuit that you could use if you wished to copper plate a nail.
Name the electrodes you use, indicating which the anode is and which the cathode is. Also
name a suitable electrolyte. 4
16.
Distinguish between Electrolysis and electrolyte
2
Distinguish between Cathode and cation 2
Distinguish between Anode and anion 2
Distinguish between Conductor and electrolyte. 2

17. Complete the table, naming the main anode and cathode products:
5
Electrodes Electrolyte Anode product Cathode product

Carbon Hydrochloric
acid
Carbon (dilute)
Hydrochloric
Carbon acid
Copper (concentrated)
Carbon Sodium
hydroxide
Copper(II)
sulphate
Copper(II)
sulphate
Questions
1. Say what is formed at cathode and at the anode during the electrolyses of the following
substances. Assume that carbon electrodes were used each time. You dont need to write
electrode equations.
a) Molten lead(II) bromide

2
b) Molten zinc chloride

2
c) Sodium iodide solution

2
d) Molten sodium iodide

2
e) Copper(II) chloride solution

2
f) Dilute hydrochloric acid

2
g) Magnesium sulfate solution

2
h) Sodium hydroxide 2
2. Some solid potassium iodide was placed in an evaporating basin. Two carbon electrodes
were inserted and connected to a 12 volt DC power source and a light bulb. The potassium
iodide was heated. As soon as the potassium iodide was molten, the bulb came on. Purple
fumes were seen coming from the positive electrode, and lilac flashes were seen around
the negative one.
a) Explain why the bulb didnt come on until the potassium iodide molted.
3
b) What name is given to the positive electrode?

1
c) Name the purple fumes seen at the positive electrode, and write the electrode equation
for their formation.
3
d) The lilac flashes seen around the negative electrode are caused by the potassium which
is formed. The potassium burns with a lilac flame. Write the electrode equation for the
formation of the potassium. 2
e) What differences would you expect to observe if you used molten sodium bromide
instead of potassium iodide?
3
f) Write the electrode equations for the reactions occurring during the electrolysis of
molten sodium bromide.
2
3. For each of the following electrolytes (i) write the cathode equation, (ii) write the anode
equation, (iii) say what has been oxidized and what has been reduced.
a) Molten lead(II) bromide using carbon electrodes

4
b) Sodium chloride solution using carbon electrodes

4
c) Calcium bromide solution using carbon electrodes

4
d) Copper(II) sulfate solution using carbon electrodes

4
e) Aluminum nitrate solution using carbon electrodes

4
f) Molten magnesium iodide using carbon electrodes

4
g) Dilute hydrochloric acid using carbon electrodes.

4
4.

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IGCSE QUESTIONS SET X (Electrolysis & Mole Calculations)

(a) Write the

negative electrode positive electrode

IGCSE QUESTIONS SET X (Electrolysis)

A5 Electrolysis is the decomposition of a liquid by the passage of an electrical current.

The electrode reactions are represented below.

(ii) Construct the equations for the two electrode reactions.

(d) Describe an advantage of using hydrogen as a possible fuel in the future.

(e) Name the products, if any, of the reaction of chlorine with

(i) aqueous potassium fluoride,

(ii) aqueous sodium bromide.

(i) Name an ore containing aluminium.

(ii) Name the element used as the anode in this process.

A3 Electrolysis involves the decomposition of a

(i) State one industrial application of this electrolysis.

temperature of current used time of electrolysis mass of copper formed at

compound by the passage of an electric current.

electrolyte ions in product at product at

Zinc sulphate zinc ethanol

Distilled water solid copper(II) sulphate poly(ethene)

(i) In which experiments will the bulb light?

(ii) Suggest the name of substance X.

(iii) State the formula of the cation in X.

CaCl2(aq) + Na2CO3(aq) CaCO3(s) + 2NaCl(aq)

(i) State the name for this type of reaction.

rod 1 rod 2 voltmeter reading / V

Place the metals in order of reactivity

most reactive magnesium

least reactive [1]

(c) A student places a rod of magnesium in aqueous silver nitrate.

Pure copper anode Impure copper anode

(b) The electrodes and the electrolyte conduct electricity.

2 The diagram shows an experiment to pass electricity through lead bromide.

(i) Write equations for both of the electrode reactions.

(a) Explain why distilled water is not used as the electrolyte.

(a) (i) Clearly label the electrodes on the diagram. [1]

(ii) Suggest a suitable material to make the electrodes.

IGCSE QUESTIONS SET X (Electrolysis)

IGCSE QUESTIONS SET X (Electrolysis, analysis and Reactivity of metals)

chromium few bubbles of gas produced every second

copper no bubbles of gas produced

iron many bubbles of gas produced every second

IGCSE QUESTIONS SET X (Electrolysis and Calculations)

7 Aluminium is extracted by the electrolysis of aluminium oxide dissolved in cryolite.

(c) Which letter in the diagram, A, B, C or D, represents the anode?

(d) Suggest why electrolysis is used to extract aluminium rather than

(e) Oxygen gas is released at the anode.

(i) Where does this oxygen come from?

atoms gaseous molten solid ions molecules

Aluminium oxide conducts electricity when it is because it

contains which are free to move. [2]

7 Chlorine is produced by the electrolysis of concentrated sodium chloride solution.

An electrolysis cell for producing chlorine is shown below.

(i) Write a word equation for this reaction.

anion anode cathode cation [1]

(ii) What is the purpose of the copper(II) sulphate solution?

(iii) Describe what happens during the electroplating to

the iron object,

the rod of pure copper. [2]

(iv) Describe a test for copper(II) ions. test

(c) Suggest why chromium is used to electroplate articles.

(a) Seawater is a source of sodium chloride.

A sample of seawater had the following composition:

(d) At which electrode is chlorine produced during the electrolysis of concentrated