What is the real purpose of adding a small amount of acid during electrolysis of water?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: To increase electrical conductivity of water
Pure water contains very few ions and therefore conducts electricity poorly. During electrolysis, adding a small amount of a suitable acid increases the concentration of mobile ions, allowing electric current to pass through the water more effectively. The acid is not added to colour oxygen, solidify hydrogen, or produce a precipitate. It supports conduction; the water is then decomposed at the electrodes into hydrogen and oxygen. Hence option A is correct.
Frequently asked questions
What is the correct answer to this question?
To increase electrical conductivity of water
Why is this the correct answer?
Pure water contains very few ions and therefore conducts electricity poorly. During electrolysis, adding a small amount of a suitable acid increases the concentration of mobile ions, allowing electric current to pass through the water more effectively. The acid is not added to colour oxygen, solidify hydrogen, or produce a precipitate. It supports conduction; the water is then decomposed at the electrodes into hydrogen and oxygen. Hence option 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.
