Investigate the electrolysis of three molten salts in electrolytic cells where there is only one oxidant and one reductant present. Find out the type of reaction that can be driven by supplying electrical energy, and the reasons behind the cell design. Observe the melting of the electrolyte prior to turning on the power. Then when power is turned on, observe the reactions at the anode and cathode, at both the physical level and the particle level. Determine the half-equations for these reactions and the equation for the net cell reaction. Explain the changes observed. This learning object is one in a series of four learning objects.
Objective
1. Students explain the design of electrolytic cells and why salts must be molten to be suitable for use as the electrolyte.
2. From observation, students determine the nature of the process occurring at each electrode, and the half-equations and the equation for the net cell reaction.
3. Students explain observations at the particle level of the changes occurring in electrolytic cells in which the electrolyte is a molten salt.
Curriculum Information
Education Type
K to 12
Grade Level
Grade 8, Grade 9, Grade 10
Learning Area
Science
Content/Topic
Matter
Living Things and Their Environment
Intended Users
Learners, Students
Competencies
Copyright Information
Copyright
Yes
Copyright Owner
Education Services Australia
Conditions of Use
Use, Copy
Technical Information
File Size
0 bytes
File Type
application/x-rar
Software/Plug-in Requirements
Adobe Flash Player - http://get.adobe.com/flashplayer/
