Naked Science Forum

Non Life Sciences => Chemistry => Topic started by: mtvaughters on 03/12/2010 16:45:47

Title: How does electrolysis of water work?
Post by: mtvaughters on 03/12/2010 16:45:47

I am a Highschool student in Wyoming and I am working on an experiment where I am using Solar, Wind ,or Water power to make Electrolysis of water to form hydrogen as a fuel source.  I have a few questions someone might be able to help me with. 

I need to know why exactly the electricity breaks down the water what makes it tear apart the molecule?

If anyone wants to see my designs you are free to ask.



Thanks for your help
sincerely Matt

Title: Re: How does electrolysis of water work?
Post by: Bored chemist on 03/12/2010 17:10:51

Actually, the electricity doesn't need to pull the molecules apart. They do that themselves (very slightly). The bits they form are called ions and those ions are electrically charged. The electricity separates the ions and then adds or subtracts electrons to make oxygen and hydrogen.
Because the water doesn't form ions very well on its own people generally add something that ionises better. Dilute acid is the common example for school experiments.

Title: Re: How does electrolysis of water work?
Post by: RD on 03/12/2010 17:26:58

NB: H₂ + O₂ = BANG ! ... http://www.h2incidents.org/incident.asp?inc=281&cat=2&val=24

Title: How does electrolysis of water work?
Post by: mtvaughters on 05/12/2010 23:13:46

Thanks alot