What is the main purpose of adding a little acid during electrolysis of water?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: To increase conductivity by increasing ions
Pure water is a very poor conductor because it contains only a small concentration of ions. Adding a small amount of a suitable acid, commonly dilute sulphuric acid in the school experiment, increases the concentration of mobile ions. These ions carry charge through the solution and allow electrolysis to proceed effectively. The acid is not added to colour the water, stop oxygen, or increase hydrogen’s mass, so A is correct.
Frequently asked questions
What is the correct answer to this question?
To increase conductivity by increasing ions
Why is this the correct answer?
Pure water is a very poor conductor because it contains only a small concentration of ions. Adding a small amount of a suitable acid, commonly dilute sulphuric acid in the school experiment, increases the concentration of mobile ions. These ions carry charge through the solution and allow electrolysis to proceed effectively. The acid is not added to colour the water, stop oxygen, or increase hydrogen’s mass, so A is correct.
Which subject and chapter does this question cover?
This is a Class 10 Science question. Chapter: Chemical Substances – Nature and Behaviour. Topic: Chemical Reactions and Equations.
