Question

Explain the structure of an electrolytic cell.

Answer 1

1. It is an electrochemical cell that converts electrical energy into chemical energy i.e. in electrolytic cells, electricity is used to bring about chemical reactions.
2. Here, both anode and cathode are in contact with Anode same electrolyte and thus the half-cells are not separated. As seen in galvanic cells, the electrolytic cell also involves a redox reaction. We get electricity from galvanic cells. But electrolytic cells use electricity.
3. In electrolytic cells, when electricity is passed to the electrolyte, it dissociates into its constituent ions. These ions undergo redox reactions forming the respective elements. This phenomenon is called Electrolysis. So electrolysis is a process by which an electrolyte is decomposed into its constituent elements by passing electricity through its aqueous solution or fused (molten) state.