Question detail

Explain why positive ions are attracted to the cathode during electrolysis.

Try the question, check the answer, then read the explanation to understand the curriculum point.

At a glance

Question

Type

exam_style

Style

Topic

Electrolysis

Question

Explain why positive ions are attracted to the cathode during electrolysis.

Answer

Positive ions are attracted to the cathode because it has a negative charge. The electrostatic attraction between opposite charges causes the positive ions to move towards the cathode to gain electrons.

Explanation

This answer shows a deeper understanding of the electrostatic forces at play in electrolysis. It tests the student's ability to explain the underlying reasons for the movement of ions, linking it to their charges.

Common mistake

Misunderstanding Ion Movement

Students often think that positive ions move to the anode instead of the cathode during electrolysis.

Remember that positive ions are attracted to the negative electrode, which is the cathode.

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