Electrolysis Questions

TAREK S.
ELHAGE
Electrolysis-Past papers questions
IGCSE - CHEMISTRY
Electrolysis questions + past papers questions
www.chem-exptc.com
2010
UAE – ABU DHABI

www.chem-exptc.com
1. During the electrolysis of a MOLTEN salt (compound) the product at the CATHODE
is:
A. Non – metal
B. Metal
C. Sodium
D. Chlorine
2. During the electrolysis of a MOLTEN salt (compound) the product at the ANODE is:
A. Non – metal
B. Metal
C. Sodium
D. Chlorine
3. During the electrolysis of a MOLTEN sodium chloride ( NaCl ) the product at the
anode and the cathode are:
Anode Cathode
A. Sodium Chloride
B. Sodium chlorine
C. Chlorine Sodium
D. chloride sodium
4. During the electrolysis of a MOLTEN lead iodide ( PbI 2 ) the product at the anode
and the cathode are:
Anode Cathode
A. hydrogen iodine
B. iodine lead
C. lead iodide
D. lead iodine
5. Circle the correct answer concerning the properties of halogens
Chlorine Bromine Iodine

A. Green, solid Green, solid Red brown, solid
B. Green, gas Red brown, gas Pale pink, liquid
C. Green, liquid Red brown, liquid Pale pink, liquid
D. Green, gas Red brown, liquid Pale pink, solid
6. During the electrolysis of a CONCENTRATED CuSO4 (aq ) the product at the

CATHODE is:
A. H 2( g )
B. O2 ( g )
C. SO2( g )
D. Red brown deposit (Cu (s ) )
7. During the electrolysis of a DILUTE CuSO4(aq ) the products at the CATHODE and
the ANODE are:
cathode anode
A. O2 ( g ) Cu (s )
B. H 2( g ) O2 ( g )
C. Cu (s ) O2 ( g )
D. Cu (s ) SO2( g )
8. The colour of the universal indicator in a neutral medium is .
A. Blue
B. Red
C. Green
D. Violet
9. When a few drops of the universal indicator are added to the acid HCl (aq ) , the
expected colour is
A. Blue
B. Red
C. Green
D. Violet
10. An acid reacts with metal to produce
A. Salt + water
B. Salt + base
C. Salt + hydrogen
D. Water + carbon dioxide
11. Name the products of the electrolysis of dilute sulphuric acid

(i) At cathode: …………………………………….
(ii) At anode: ………………………………………
12. Which of the following does NOT contain ions?

(a) Aqueous hydrogen chloride
(b) Gaseous hydrogen chloride
(c) Solid potassium nitrate
(d) Molten potassium chloride
13. Which of the following does NOT contain free ions?

(a) Aqueous hydrogen chloride
(b) Aqueous ammonia
(c) Solid potassium nitrate
(d) Molten potassium chloride
14. When aqueous H 2 SO 4(aq) solution is electrolysed using inert carbon

electrodes, the substance formed at anode is
(a) hydrogen gas
(b) Oxygen gas
(c) Copper (II) ion
(d) Copper deposit
15. When aqueous H 2 SO 4(aq) solution is electrolysed using inert carbon electrodes, the
substance formed at cathode is:
(a) hydrogen gas
(b) Oxygen gas
(c) Copper (II) ion
(d) Copper deposit
16. When aqueous H 2 SO 4(aq) solution is electrolysed using inert carbon electrodes, the
substance formed at anode is a:
(a) Gas that burns with pop sound
(b) Gas that relights a glowing splint
(c) Brown gas
(d) Pink solid
17. The diagram shows the electrolysis of a molten compound X.

What is compound X?
A. Copper (II) Chloride + −
B. Lead(II) bromide
C. Sodium chloride Carbon electrode Carbon electrode
D. Sodium bromide
bubbles of
brown gas
Molten compound X
Molten Silvery metal
heat
18. The diagram shows the electrolysis to electroplate nickel with different metals
+ −
1 2 3 4
Ni Ni Ni Ni
Aqueous Aqueous
Copper (II) sulphate sodium Chloride
Which nickel electrodes are plated with a metal?

A- 1 only
B- 1 and 3 only
C- 2 only
D- 2 and 4 only
19. Metal X is low in the reactivity series and it is liberated by electrolysis of its
bromide.
Metal X is ……1…… and the bromide is ……2…… .
Which words correctly complete gaps 1 and 2?
1 2
Lead In solution
A.
Lead molten
B.
C. Sodium In solution
D. Sodium molten
20. Copper and hydrogen can each be formed by electrolysis.

At which electrodes are these elements formed?
copper hydrogen
anode anode
A.
anode cathode
B.
C. cathode anode
D. cathode cathode
21. Two elements X and Y form ionic compounds, XBr2 and Y2O3. The
compounds are separately melted and electricity is passed through the
liquids.
What are the products at the cathodes?
A. bromine and oxygen
B. bromine and Y
C. oxygen and X
D. X and Y
22. Which change can take place during electrolysis?

A. lead(IV) oxide → lead(II) oxide + oxygen
B. concentrated hydrochloric acid → hydrogen + chlorine
C. sodium hydroxide + nitric acid → sodium nitrate + water
D. lead(II) nitrate + sulphuric acid → lead(II) sulphate + nitric acid
23. What is the charge on an anode and the type of element formed at such an
electrode?
charge on anode type of element formed
A. negative metal
B. negative non-metal
C. positive metal
D. positive non-metal
24. The diagram shows how to cause a chemical change in a molten compound.
+ -
electrodes
molten compound
heat
What is this process used for?
A. removal of oxides from metals
B. extraction of metal from its ore
C. neutralisation of industrial waste
D. production of fertilisers
25. A molten compound is electrolysed. Two atoms of X are deposited at the

negative electrode at the same time as three atoms of Y are deposited at the
positive electrode.
These results show that:
• X is a …..1..…;
• Y is a …..2..…;
• the formula of the compound is …3… .
How are gaps 1, 2 and 3 correctly completed?
1 2 3
A. metal non-metal X3Y2

B. metal non-metal X2Y3
C. non-metal metal X3Y2
D. non-metal metal X2Y3
26. In which electrolysis are chlorine, hydrogen and sodium hydroxide all
produced?
aqueous sodium chloride molten sodium chloride
A.
B.
C.
D.
27. Metallic and non-metallic elements can both be extracted by electrolysis.

Which element is produced at the negative electrode (cathode)?
A. bromine
B. chlorine
C. oxygen
D. hydrogen
28. The electrolysis of concentrated aqueous sodium chloride makes three

products.
Which products are shown at the correct electrodes?
anode (+ve) cathode (–ve)
A. chlorine sodium hydroxide

B. sodium hydroxide chlorine
C. hydrogen sodium
D. chlorine hydrogen
29. The diagram shows that two gases are formed when concentrated
hydrochloric acid is electrolysed between inert electrodes.
+ve - ve
concentrated
hydrochloric acid
Which line correctly describes the colours of the gases at the electrodes?
anode (+ve) cathode (–ve)
A. colourless colourless
B. colourless yellow-green
C. yellow-green colourless
D. yellow-green yellow-green
30. The diagram shows the electrolysis of molten lead(II) bromide.
electrode X + − electrode Y
molten lead ( II) bromide
heat
What is seen at each electrode?

electrode X electrode Y
A. brown gas silvery metal

B. brown metal green gas
C. green gas brown metal
D. silvery metal brown gas
31. The following electrolysis circuit is set up, using inert electrodes P, Q, R and
S.
+ − + −
P Q R S
Molten Concentrated
Lead (II) bromide hydrochloric acid
At which of the electrodes is a Group VII element produced?
A. P only B. P and R C. Q only D. Q and S

32. The following electrolysis circuit is set up, using inert electrodes
At which electrode is a metal deposited?
+ − + −
A B C D
Concentrated Molten
aqueous Lead (II) bromide
sodium chloride
33. The diagram shown is not complete.
concentrated
hydrochlor ic acid
What should be shown at X when the solution has been electrolysed for some
time?
A B C D
Cl 2 H2 Cl 2 H2 H2 O2 H2 Cl 2
34. Which product is manufactured by electrolysis?

A. aluminium
B. copper(II) sulphate
C. steel
D. sodium chloride
35. The diagram represents the electrolysis of brine (aqueous sodium

chloride).
brine chlorine X
+ -
positive porous negative
electrode wall electrode
What are products X and Y?

X Y
A. hydrogen aqueous sodium hydroxide

B. hydrogen hydrochloric acid
C. oxygen aqueous sodium hydroxide
D. oxygen hydrochloric acid
36. Define
(a)Electrolysis
………………………………………….…………………..………………………
(b) Electrolyte (liquid)
………………………………………….…………………..……………………
(c)Conductor (metal)
………………………………………….…………………..………………………
(d) Anode
………………………………………….……………………..……………………
(e)Inert electrode
………………………………………….…………………..………………………
37. In electrolysis of molten magnesium chloride MgCl2 using graphite electrodes
(a) Give the formula of the ions present
………………………………………………………………………………………
(b) What is observed at
Anode ……………………………, cathode ……………..……………………
(c) Name the product at

Anode …………………..…………, cathode …………………………..….…
(d) Write the ionic equation to show changes at

Anode: ……………………………… 
→ ……………………………………
Cathode: …………………………… 
→ ………..…….…………..……..…
(e) Draw a labeled dia gram and indicat e the direction of electron flow
(f) How are e − removed from outer circuit and where?

……………………………….…………………..…………………………………
38. Name the products at electrodes, during the electrolysis ( using inert electrodes) of
(a) dilute sulphuric acid solution H 2 SO4 ( aq )
i. at anode ……………………… , ii. at cathode …………………………
(b) dilute potassium nitrate solution KNO3( aq )
(i) at anode ……………………, (ii). at cathode ………………….……
(c) Copper (II) sulphate solution CuSO4 ( aq )
i. at anode…………………….…, ii. at cathode ………….………………
(d) concentrated HCl ( aq )
at anode …………………………… , ii. at cathode……………….……
(e) Concentrated NaCl( aq )
i. at anode…………………………………………………, ii. at cathode

…………………………………………………
39. In the electrolysis of molten lead(II) bromide PbBr2(l ) using Graphite

electrodes
(i) What is observed at anode? ………………………………………………………………………
(ii) Name the product at anode? ………………………………………………………………………

(iii) Write the ionic equation that takes place at anode.
…………………………………………………………………. 
→ ………………………………………
(i) What is observed at cathode? ……………………………………………………………………

(ii) Name the product at cathode? ……………………………………………………………………
(iii) Write the ionic equation that takes place at cathode.
…………………………………………………………………. 
→ ………………………………………
(a) What happens to the ammeter reading if heat is removed? Why?

………………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………….
(b) How are electrons removed from the outer circuit? and why?
………………………………………………………………………………………
40. In the electrolysis of molten sodium chloride ( M gBr 2 ) , using inert electrodes
(a) Give the formulae of the ions present:

………………..……….………..
(b) what is observed at each electrode
at anode ………………..………….. At cathode………………..……..…..
(c) what are the products at the electrodes

at anode ………………..………….. At cathode………………..……..…..
(d) Write the ionic equation which takes place at

- At Anode: …………..………... 
→ ………………..………...
- At Cathode: …………..…….… 
→ ………………..………...
41. In the electrolysis of sulphuric acid ( H 2 SO 4(aq) ) , using inert electrodes
(a) Give the formulae of the ions present: ……………….……...………..
(b) Which ions move to the positive electrode (anode): …………………………..
(c) Which ions move to the negative electrode (cathode): ……………….………..
(d) Name the product at anode: ..……………………………..………..
(e) Write the ionic equation which takes place at
- At Anode: ……..……….…..... 
→ ……….………..………...
(f) Name the product at cathode: ..………………………….………..
(g) Write the ionic equation which takes place at cathode
At Cathode: …………………..… 
→ …………..……..………...
42. The following diagram shows electroplating of a an iron spoon with copper
(a) The metal of which X is m ade is………………..…………..
(b) Is X made anode or cathode ? ……………………….….....
(c) Is the spoon anode or cathode ? ………………………...…
(d) A suitable electrolyte is ……………………….…………………
(e) In case we need to electroplate the spoon with silver ,
suggest a suitable
(i) Anode …………………..……..
(ii) Electrol yte ……………………..
Spoon X
electrolyte
43. In purification of copper

(a) Impure copper is made ………………..…………………….………..
(b) Pure copper is made cathode ……………………………….………..
(c) The used electrol yte is ………………..………………………..……..
(d) The formed slime (sludge) has economic importance because
…..……………………..…………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………..……..
4 4 . The diagram shows a method for obtaining pure copper from impure
copper.
positive
Electrode negative
( Anode ) Electrode
( cathode )
A B
C D
electrolyte
1- Name each of the following substances
a) Substance A ………………………………………………..
b) Substance B ……………………………………………………
c) Substance C ………………………………………….………
d) Substance D ………………………………………….………
45. Extraction of Aluminum
+ A
C B
Molten Aluminum
D collecting on the bottom
(a) Label the letters A to D

(b) Give the name of the main aluminum ore. …………………………………………
(c) Why should aluminum ore be treated with sodium hydroxide before electrolysis?
…………………………………………………………………………………………
…………………………………………………………………………………..………
(d) Name the substance in which aluminum oxide is dissolved in the above
electrolysis process.
………………………………………………………………………………………
(e) Explain why the substance in part (4) is added to aluminum oxide.
………………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………………
(f) Write the balanced ionic equation for the reaction which takes place at the
cathode.
………………………………….………………………………………………………
(g) Which electrode has to be frequently replaced during the process? Explain your
answer.
……………………………………….……………………………………………
…….………………………………………………………………………………
46. Zinc is extracted from its ore, zinc blende ,by reduction with carbon after being roasted
with air
a) Complete the following two equations for the reactions involved in this process
….. ZnS + ……..…. 

→ ….. ZnO + ……. SO 2
ZnO + ……..…. 
→ Zn + ……. CO 2
b) Give one use of Zinc. ……………………………………………………
47. (a)Name the 3 products obtained by electrolysis of KBr ( aq ) using inert electrodes
…………………………………………………………………………..……………………………
(a) How is Br 2 obtained from KBr ( aq ) ?
……………………………………………………..…………….……………………..……………
……………………………………………………..…………..…………..…………..……………
(b) How is I 2 obtained from NaI ( aq ) ?

……...………..……………………………………………………………………………………….…
48. In the electrolysis cell of concentrated NaCl (aq )
(Brine)
Conc. NaCl (aq)
Porous
Wall
+ −
(a) Name the products at Anode Cathode
Anode ……..……………..…., cathode ……….……..………….
(b) Name the solution flows out of the cell.

……………………………………………………………………………
(c)How is sodium hydroxide obtained from concentrated NaCl (aq ) ?
………………………………………………………….………………………………
…………………………………………………………..……
…………………………………………………………………………..………………
………….……………………………………………………
(d) How is chlorine gas obtained from NaCl (aq ) solution?
…………………………………………………………………………..………………
…………………………………………………………………………..………………
(e)(a) Name the 3 products of the electrolysis of concentrated KBr(aq ) .
…………………………………..…..……,
………………………………....…..……….,
………………………….…………………
(f) Write the ionic equations taking place at
(i) anode:……………………..…… 
→ …………………………..……
(ii) Cathode: ……………..…..…… 
→ ………………………..…..……
49. Like Copper, nickel can be refined by electrolysis.

Label the diagram to show the purification of nickel in the laboratory
− +
50. The diagram below shows an apparatus in which the electrolysis of aqueous sodium
sulphate containing litmus solution was carried out.
Gas A
Gas B
Platinium Electrodes
Direct
Current
When the current was passed through the solution, the solution around the anode
turned red and the solution around the cathode turned blue. Gas A was found to
relight a glowing splint and gas B, when ignited, burned with “pop”.
(a) Give the formula of the four ions in aqueous sodium sulphate
……………………………………………………….……………………………
……………………………………………………………….………………… [2]
(b) Which ion caused the litmus to turn red?
……………………………………………………………..…………………… [1]
(c) Which ion caused the litmus to turn blue?
……………………………………………………………….………………… [1]
(d) (i) Complete the table below

Name of gas Name of electrode at which
gas is produced
Gas A
Gas B
(ii) Write an equation to show the formation of gas B.

……………………………………………………….……………………………
……………………………………………………………….……………………
(iii) At which electrode has oxidation taken place?
……………………………………………………….……………………………
……………………………………………………………..………………… [4]
(e) If the experiment is repeated using deionised water without sodium sulphate
dissolved in it, no reaction occurs.
(i) Explain why there is no reaction?
……………………………………………………….……………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………
(ii) Explain why the addition of sodium sulphate to deionised water allows a reaction
to take place.
……………………………………………………….……………………………
………………………………………………………………………….…………
……………………………………………………….……………………………
……………………………………………………………………….………… [2]
51. Calcium may be prepared by the electrolysis of molten calcium chloride

CaCl2 .
Steel Cathode
Graphite anode + + Graphite anode
−
Molten Calcium
Chloride
Graphite
(i) How would you convert lime (calcium oxide) into anhydrous calcium
chloride?
………………………………………….………………………………………………
…………………………………………………………………………………………
(ii) What element are the anodes made from?

…………………………………………………………………………………………
(iii) At which electrode is the calcium obtained?
…………………………………………………………………………………………
(iv) Name the other substance produced during this electrolysis.
……………………………………………………….…………………………………
52. Lithium is extracted by the electrolysis of its molten chloride.

A
+ −
Part of circuit A to B
Carbon
Electrodes
B
Part of circuit C to D D C
Molten Lithium
chloride
heat
(i) Lithium chloride is an ionic compound. Explain why it conducts electricity in

molten state but not in the solid state.
….…………………………………………………………………………….…… [2]
(ii) How is electricity conducted in the part of the circuit labeled
A to B ………………………………………………………………………………
C to D ……………………………………………………………..………………. [2]
(iii) What would be the products of the electrolysis of concentrated aqueous

lithium chloride?
……………………………………………………………….………………… [3]
53. Chemistry is concerned with the transfer of electrons and energy.

(a) During electrolysis, electrical energy is supplied,
electrons move in the external circuit and ions
move in the electrolyte. The diagram
Power supply
shows the electrolysis of molten
+ −
potassium bromide.
External Circuit
Electrodes
Molten potassium
bromide
heat
(i) Draw an arrow on the diagram to show the direction of the
electrons in the external circuit. [1]
(ii) Is the following reaction exothermic or endothermic? Give a reason for
your choice.
2KBr 
→ 2K + Br2
…………………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………………[2]
(iii) Electrons are removed from the external circuit. Howe and where is this
done?
…………………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………………[1]
(iv) The results of experiments on electrolysis are shown in the following table.
Complete the table; the first has been completed as an example.
Electrolyte Electrodes Change at Change Change to
cathode at anode electrolyte
Molten Carbon Potassium Bromine Used up
metal formed formed
potassium
bromide
Aqueous Copper Stays the same
copper (II)
sulphate
Carbon hydrogen Chlorine Potassium
gas evolved formed hydroxide formed
[4]
54. The diagram shows the electrolysis of Lead (II) bromide, PbBr2
+ −
Brown fumes
Silvery metal
Molten Lead (II) bromide
Heat
(a) Explain why solid lead (II) bromide does not conduct electricity.
…………………………………………………..…………………………………
(b) Balance the equations for the reactions that take place at each electrode.
(i) ………... Br − 
→ Br2 + ……… e −
(ii) Pb 2+ + ……. e − 
→ Pb
(c) Identify the brown fumes shown in the above diagram

…………………………………………………..…………………………………
(d) Define reduction in terms of electrons
…………………………………………………..………………………………
55. A metallic cup can be coated in silver by electrolysis. The process is called
electroplating
Cup Metal electrode
electrolyte
(a) Identify the metal from which the used electrode is made.…………………
(b) Suggest a suitable electrolyte that could be used. ..………………………..
(c) Should the cup be made anode or cathode? ………………………………...
56.
The diagram shows the apparatus used to electrolyse lead(II) bromide.
(a) The wires connected to the electrodes are made of copper.
Explain why copper conducts electricity.
..................................................................................................................
..................................................................................................................
(b) Explain why electrolysis does not occur unless the lead(II) bromide is
molten.
...................................................................................................................
...................................................................................................................
(c) The reactions occurring at the electrodes can be represented by the

equations shown in the table.
Complete the table to show the electrode (A or B) at which each reaction
occurs, and the type of reaction occurring (oxidation or reduction).

Paper3
57. The electrolysis of concentrated aqueous sodium chloride produces three
commercially important chemicals; hydrogen, chlorine and sodium hydroxide.
(a)The ions present are Na+(aq), H+(aq) ,Cl –(aq) and OH–(aq).
(i)Complete the ionic equation for the reaction at the negative electrode (cathode).
………………. + ………………. 
→ [1]
(ii)Complete the ionic equation for the reaction at the positive electrode (anode).
………………. - ………………. 
→ [1]
(iii)Explain why the solution changes from sodium chloride to sodium hydroxide.
……………………………………………………………………………………..………. [1]
(b) (i) Why does the water supply industry use chlorine?
……………………………………………………………………………………..………. [1]
(ii)Name an important chemical that is made from hydrogen.
……………………………………………………………………………………..………. [1]
(iii)Sodium hydroxide reacts with fats to make soap and glycerine
What type of compound are fats?
……………………………………………………………………………………..………. [1]
Nov-2008
1. Copper is purified by electrolysis.
(a) Complete the following.
The positive electrode (anode) is made from……………………………….
The negative electrode (cathode) is made from ……………………………
The electrolyte is aqueous …………………………………………………[3]
(b) Write an ionic equation for the reaction at the positive electrode (anode).
……………………..……………………………………………………..………. [2]
(c) (i) Give two reasons why copper is used,
in electric wiring, ……………………………………………………..
……………………………………………………………………………..………. [2]
in cooking utensils., ……………………………………………………..
……………………………………………………………………………..………. [2]
(ii) Give another use of copper.
……………………………………………………………………………..………. [1]
[Total: 10]
May-2008
1. Zinc is extracted from zinc blende, ZnS. Zinc blende is heated in air to give
zinc oxide . part of the zinc oxide reacts with sulphuric acid to give aqueous
zinc sulphate. This is electrolysed with inert electrodes (the electrolysis is
the same as that of copper (II) sulphate with inert electrodes).
ions present: Zn2+(aq) SO 24− (aq) H+(aq) OH-(aq)
(i) Zinc forms at the negative electrode (cathode). Write the equation for this
reaction.
………………………………………………………………………..………. [1]
(ii) Write the equation for the reaction at the positive electrode (anode).
………………………………………………………………………..………. [1]
(iii) The electrolyte changes from aqueous zinc sulphate to
………………………………………………………………………..………. [1]
(a) Give two uses of zinc.
1……………...………………………………………………………..……….
2. ………………………….……………………………………..………. [2]
Nov-2007
(a) Cell reactions are both exothermic and redox. They produce electrical
energy as well as heat energy.
(i) The diagram shows a simple cell.

voltmeter
V
zinc iron
electrode electrode
becomes
thinner bubbles of
hydrogen form
dilute
sulphuric acid
Which substance in this cell is the reductant and which ion is the oxidant?
reductant ………zinc………………………………………………………
oxidant ………hydrogen ions…………………………………………… [2]
(ii) How could the voltage of this cell be increased?
magnesium instead of zinc or increase concentration of acid

or copper instead of iron ( increase the reactivity difference)
………………………………………………………………………………..………………[1]
(ii) What is the important large scale use, relating to iron and steel, of this
type of cell reaction?
sacrificial protection or stop iron/steel rusting [1]

or galvanising
…………………………………………………………………………………………………[1]
(b) Cells can be set up with inert electrodes and the electrolytes as oxidant
and reductant.
voltmeter
V
electron flow
carbon carbon
electrode electrode
(inert) (inert)
Potassium Potassium
manganate(VII)(aq) iodide(aq)
salt bridge
(allows ions to move from
one beaker to another)
The potassium manganate(VII) is the oxidant and the potassium iodide is the
reductant.
(i) Describe the colour change that would be observed in the left hand beaker.
pink or purple [1] to colourless or decolourised [1]

NOT red NOT clear
…………………………………………………………………………………………………[2]
(ii) Write an ionic equation for the reaction in the right hand beaker.
2I– – 2e 
→ I2
…………………………………………………………………………………………………[2]
May-2006
(i) The electrolysis of molten strontium chloride produces strontium metal and
chlorine. Write ionic equations for the reactions at the electrodes.
negative electrode (cathode) …………..…………….………….………
positive electrode (anode) …………..……………………….……… [2]
(ii) One of the products of the electrolysis of concentrated aqueous strontium
chloride is chlorine. Name the other two.
…………..………………………………………………………………… [2]
Nov-2005
(i) h ydroc hloric acid [1]

(ii) Sr 2 + + 2e = Sr [1]
2C l – – 2e = C l 2 [1] or 2C l – = C l 2 + 2e
(iii ) hydr ogen [1] and stront ium hydr oxi de [ 1] [2] Nov-2005
(b) Aqueous copper(II) sulphate solution can be electrolysed using carbon

electrodes. The ions present in the solution are as follows.
Cu2+(aq), SO 24− (aq), H+(aq), OH– (aq)
(i) Write an ionic equation for the reaction at the negative electrode (cathode).
............................................................................................................[1]
(ii) A colourless gas was given off at the positive electrode (anode) and the
solution changes from blue to colourless.
Explain these observations.
............................................................................................................
............................................................................................................[2]
(c) Aqueous copper(II) sulphate can be electrolysed using copper electrodes. The
reaction at the negative electrode is the same but the positive electrode
becomes smaller and the solution remains blue.
(i) Write a word equation for the reaction at the positive electrode.
............................................................................................................[1]
(ii) Explain why the colour of the solution does not change.
............................................................................................................
............................................................................................................[2]
(iii) What is the large scale use of this electrolysis?
............................................................................................................[1]
May-2004
(b) (i) Cu2+ + 2e = Cu [1]

(ii) gas is oxygen [1]
(copper(II) sulphate) changes to sulphuric acid [1]
or copper ions removed from solution
(c) (i) copper atoms - electrons = copper ions [1]
accept correct symbol equation
(ii) concentration of copper ions does not change or [1]
amount or number of copper ions does not change
copper ions are removed and then replaced [1]
or copper is transferred from anode to cathode
(iii) refining copper or plating (core) [1]
or extraction of boulder copper
May-2004
1. Copper is purified by electrolysis.
(a) Complete the following.
The positive electrode (anode) is made from………………………………….
The negative electrode (cathode) is made from …………………..…………
The electrolyte is aqueous ………………… ………………………………[3]
(b) Write an ionic equation for the reaction at the positive electrode (anode).
…………………….………………………………...………………..………. [2]
(c) (i) Give two reasons why copper is used,
in electric wiring, …………………………………..……………………..
……………………………………………………………………..………. [2]
in cooking utensils., …………………………..………………………..
……………………….……………………………………………..………. [2]
(ii) Give another use of copper.
……………………………………………………………………..………. [1]
[Total: 10]
May-2008
2. Lead bromide was placed in a tube and connected to an electrical circuit as shown below.
d.c.power supply
bulb
LEAD
BROMIDE
TOXIC
heat
The lead bromide was heated until molten. A brown gas was given off.
(a) State one other expected observation.
………………………………………….……………………….………………………………[1]
(b) (i)Suggest a suitable material to make the electrodes.

…………..………………………….……………………………….………………………….[1]
(ii)Indicate on the diagram the negative electrode (cathode). [1]
(c) Name the brown gas. At what electrode will the gas be given off?
⋅ Name …………………..………………….…………………………………….…………
⋅ electrode ……………………………….………………………………...………………[2]
(d) Why is this experiment carried out in a fume cupboard?
…………..………………………….……………………………….…………………………[1]
May-June - 2004
3. The diagram shows the apparatus used to find out the effect of an electric current on a
concentrated aqueous solution of sodium chloride.
(a) On the diagram label the electrodes [1]
(b)Give three observations when the circuit is switched on.
1……………………….…………………………………………………………………………
2……………………….…………………………………………………………………………
3……………………….……………………………………………….………………………[3]
(c) (i)Name the product at the positive electrode (anode).
……………………….……………………………………….…………………………………[1]
(ii)State a test for this product and the result of the test.
test……….……………………………………….………………………………………[1]
result ……………………….………………………………………………………………[1]
May-June-2006
4. Impure copper is extracted from the ore. This copper is refined by

electrolysis.
(a) Name;
the material used for the positive electrode (anode),
……………………..…………………………………………….……..………. [1]
the material used for the negative electrode (cathode),
…………………………………………………………………….………………[1]
a suitable electrolyte.
…………………………………………………………………….………………[1]
(b) Write an ionic equation for the reaction at the negative electrode.
…………………………………………………………………….………………[1]
(c) One use of this pure copper is electrical conductors, another is to make
alloys.
Name the metal that is alloyed with copper to make brass.
…………………………………………………………………….………………[1]
Nov-2005
5. The diagram shows the apparatus used to pass an electric current through concentrated
hydrochloric acid.
chlorine hydroge
n
(a) Label the electrodes. [1]

(b) Give two observations when the current is switched on.
1……….…………………………………..…………………………………………….
2……….…………………………………..………………………………………… [2]
(c) Give a test for the product at the negative electrode (cathode).
test ……….…………………………..…………………………………………….
result ……….………………..……………………………………………………. [2]
oct-Nov-2005
6. Electricity was passed through a concentrated solution of sodium chloride containing

Universal Indicator.
positive + − negative
electrode carbon electrode
rods
Concentrated
aqueous sodium
chloride and
universal indicator
(a) Suggest a suitable material for the electrodes.
carbon/graphite/any unreactive metal e.g. platinum/nickel………………….………..[1]

Three observations were noted:
1- Bubbles of gas seen immediately at the negative electrode.

2- Bubbles of gas formed after some time at the positive electrode.
3- The solution turned blue around the negative electrode and colourless near the
positive electrode.
(b) Give a test to show that the gas observed in 1 is hydrogen.
• Test ……lighted splint (1) ……………..……………….……..[1]

• result … pops(1) ………………………………………………..[1]
(c) Suggest why bubbles of gas were not seen immediately in 2.
gas dissolves (in the solution) o.w.t.t.e [1]…………………………..………………..

………………………………………………………………………………………………..[2]
(d) (d)What causes the colour change in 3 at
the negative electrode, …alkali/(sodium) hydroxide (1)………………………………..[1]
the positive electrode? …chlorine/bleach (1) not chloride or chlorine ions………..[1]

7. A constant current was passed through aqueous copper(II) sulphate using inert
electrodes as shown in the diagram below. Copper was deposited at one of the
electrodes.
variable
resistor
+ –
D E
aqueous
copper(II) sulphate
(a) Name a suitable material for the inert electrodes. ……………………………… [1]
(b) At which electrode was copper deposited, D or E? ……………………………… [1]
(c) What was seen at the other electrode?
............................................................................................................................................[1]
(d) What was the colour of the electrolyte
(i) at the start of the experiment,
...................................................................................................................................
(ii)at the end of the experiment?
...................................................................................................................................
[2]
8. A metal cup can be coated in silver by electrolysis. The cup must be very clean and
also rotated during the process, which is known as electroplating.
metal electrode
cup
electrolyte
(a) Should the metal cup be the anode or the cathode?
.............................................................................................................................[1]
(b)Identify the metal from which the electrode is made.
..............................................................................................................................[1]
(c) Suggest a suitable electrolyte that could be used to electroplate this cup.
..............................................................................................................................[2]
(d)Suggest why the cup must be
(ii) very clean,

...........................................................................................................................
......................................................................................................................[1]
(iii) rotated during the electrolysis.

...........................................................................................................................
......................................................................................................................[1]
2 (a) cathode / negative [1]

(b) silver [1]
(c) silver nitrate (1) solution (1) [2] // any silver salt not Cl -, I-
(d) (i) silver will not coat / stick or similar [1]
(ii) to give even coating / all of it gets coated [1] [Total 6]
9. A student electrolysed lead bromide and aqueous sodium chloride in the apparatus
shown below.
+ -
+ - + -
carbon carbon
A B electrodes C D electrodes
molten aqueous
lead bromide sodium chloride
heat
Each of the electrodes is labelled with a letter.
(a) Why was it necessary for lead bromide to be molten?
......................................................................................................................................[1]
(b) (i)What was produced at electrode A?
...................................................................................................................................
(ii) What was the appearance of this product?
...................................................................................................................................
(iii) What was produced at electrode B?
...................................................................................................................................
(iv) Where did this product collect?
...................................................................................................................................
[4]
(c)Gases were produced at electrodes C and D. In each case name the gas and give
a test to confirm its presence.
(i) the gas produced at C ...............................................................................
test for this gas .........................................................................................................
(ii) gas produced at D ,,....................................................................................
test for this gas .........................................................................................................

[4]
(d) What change should be made so that sodium is produced at one of the
electrodes?
..........................................................................................................................................[1]
10. The apparatus below was used to electrolyse water.
X Y
graphite electrodes
H 2SO 4 (aq)
(a) (i) Why was a small volume of sulphuric acid added to the water?
.......................................................................................................................
(ii)Name the gas collected in tube X and give a test for this gas.
gas ............................................................................................................................
test ............................................................................................................................
(iii) Name the gas collected in tube Y and give a test for this gas.
gas ............................................................................................................................
test ........................................................................................................................[5]
(b) State how the volume of gas collected in tube X compares with the volume of gas
collected in tube Y.
..................................................................................................................................... [1]
(c) Name a gas that may be used to sterilise water and give a test for this gas.
gas ...................................................................................................................................
test .............................................................................................................................. [2]
(d) A student added a small piece of sodium and a small piece of iron to separate samples
of water. What observations were made?
sodium ..............................................................................................................................
..........................................................................................................................................
iron ...................................................................................................................................
..................................................................................................................................... [3]
11. A student electrolysed concentrated aqueous sodium chloride using the apparatus
below.
The solution also contained litmus solution.
+ -
Carbon Carbon
anode anode
aqueous sodium
chloride containing
some litmus solution
(a) (i)Name the gas produced at the anode (positive electrode).
......................................................................................................................................... [1]
(ii) Suggest what happened to the colour of the solution around the anode as the
electrolysis proceeded.
…..………......................................................................................................................... [1]
(iii) Why did this change take place?
…….……….................................................................................................................... [1]
(b) (i)Name the gas produced at the cathode (negative electrode).
..................................................................................................................................... [1]
(ii) Give a test for this gas.
........................................................................................................................................ [1]
(iii) What happened to the colour of the solution around the cathode as the electrolysis
proceeded?
.............................................................................................................................. [1]
(iv) Why did this change take place?
.............................................................................................................................. [1]
(c) The solution was replaced by a dilute solution of an acid. Suggest which acid
would produce the same gases as those produced with concentrated aqueous sodium
chloride.
(d) Under what conditions does the electrolysis of sodium chloride produce sodium at one of
the electrodes?
[Total: 9]
12. The diagram shows a cell that can be used to make electrical energy.
voltmeter
rod of metal X, Y or Z
Magnesium
rod electrolyte
(a) Explain why distilled water is not used as the electrolyte.
............................................................................................................................................[1]
(b) This table shows the results when rods of three metals, X, Y and Z, are used in separate
experiments.
All the metals are less reactive than magnesium.
rod 1 rod 2 Voltmeter reading / V

magnesium
X 2.72
magnesium
Y 0.78
magnesium
Z 1.10
Place the metals in order of reactivity

most reactive magnesium
………………………
………………………
least reactive ………………………

(c) A student places a rod of magnesium in aqueous silver nitrate.
(i) Write an ionic equation, with state symbols, for the reaction which happened.
...................................................................................................................................
(ii) What would you expect to see after the reaction had been taking place for some time?
...............................................................................................................................................
...........................................................................................................................................[3]
13. This reaction can be used to generate electricity in a cell.
(a) Write an ionic equation for the reaction between zinc and aqueous copper(II) sulphate.
..................................................................................................................................... [1]
copper electrode 2
electrode (Zinc)
aqueous copper (II)
sulphate
(b) Drawn an arrow on the diagram to show the direction of the flow of electrons in the wire.
[1]
(c) The voltage of the cell was measured when the following metals were used as electrode 2.
copper iron lead zinc
Complete the table by entering the metals in the correct order.
meter reading / V metal

1.10
0.78
0.21
0.00
(d) When metal M was used as electrode 2, it produced a higher voltage than zinc.
Suggest a name for metal M.
........................................................................................................................................................ [1]
14. The diagram shows a cell for purifying copper.
- +
Pure copper impure copper

cathode anode
Electrolyte
(aqueous copper (II)
sulphate
(a) Describe what you would observe during this electrolysis and write the equations for the
reactions at the electrodes.
(b) The electrodes and the electrolyte conduct electricity.

(i) Explain how the structure of metals allows copper electrodes to conduct electricity. [1]
(ii)Explain why solid copper(II) sulphate does not conduct electricity but an aqueous
solution of copper(II) sulphate does conduct.
(c)Describe how the apparatus shown in the diagram could be modified in order to electroplate
an iron object, such as a knife, with nickel.
(d) Bronze is an alloy of copper and tin. Bronze is less malleable than pure copper. Use ideas
about the structure of metals and alloys to explain why bronze is less malleable than pure copper.
15. An electric current can be generated by a simple electrochemical cell such as the one
shown.
V
magnesium copper
Electrolyte
(magnesium sulphate)
(a) Explain why the flow of electrons is in the direction shown in the diagram. [2]
(b) Suggest why silver nitrate would not be a good electrolyte to use in this cell. [1]

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TAREK S.

UAE – ABU DHABI

5. Circle the correct answer concerning the properties of halogens

Chlorine Bromine Iodine

6. During the electrolysis of a CONCENTRATED CuSO4 (aq ) the product at the

11. Name the products of the electrolysis of dilute sulphuric acid

12. Which of the following does NOT contain ions?

13. Which of the following does NOT contain free ions?

14. When aqueous H 2 SO 4(aq) solution is electrolysed using inert carbon

17. The diagram shows the electrolysis of a molten compound X.

Which nickel electrodes are plated with a metal?

Metal X is ……1…… and the bromide is ……2…… .

Which words correctly complete gaps 1 and 2?

20. Copper and hydrogen can each be formed by electrolysis.

What are the products at the cathodes?

A. bromine and oxygen

22. Which change can take place during electrolysis?

B. concentrated hydrochloric acid → hydrogen + chlorine

C. sodium hydroxide + nitric acid → sodium nitrate + water

D. lead(II) nitrate + sulphuric acid → lead(II) sulphate + nitric acid

charge on anode type of element formed

A. removal of oxides from metals

B. extraction of metal from its ore

C. neutralisation of industrial waste

25. A molten compound is electrolysed. Two atoms of X are deposited at the

These results show that:

• the formula of the compound is …3… .

How are gaps 1, 2 and 3 correctly completed?

A. metal non-metal X3Y2

aqueous sodium chloride molten sodium chloride

27. Metallic and non-metallic elements can both be extracted by electrolysis.

28. The electrolysis of concentrated aqueous sodium chloride makes three

Which products are shown at the correct electrodes?

anode (+ve) cathode (–ve)

A. chlorine sodium hydroxide

anode (+ve) cathode (–ve)

30. The diagram shows the electrolysis of molten lead(II) bromide.

molten lead ( II) bromide

What is seen at each electrode?

A. brown gas silvery metal

At which of the electrodes is a Group VII element produced?

A. P only B. P and R C. Q only D. Q and S

33. The diagram shown is not complete.

34. Which product is manufactured by electrolysis?

35. The diagram represents the electrolysis of brine (aqueous sodium

What are products X and Y?

A. hydrogen aqueous sodium hydroxide

(c) Name the product at

(d) Write the ionic equation to show changes at

(f) How are e − removed from outer circuit and where?

(a) dilute sulphuric acid solution H 2 SO4 ( aq )

i. at anode ……………………… , ii. at cathode …………………………

(b) dilute potassium nitrate solution KNO3( aq )

(i) at anode ……………………, (ii). at cathode ………………….……

(c) Copper (II) sulphate solution CuSO4 ( aq )

i. at anode…………………….…, ii. at cathode ………….………………

(d) concentrated HCl ( aq )

at anode …………………………… , ii. at cathode……………….……

(e) Concentrated NaCl( aq )

i. at anode…………………………………………………, ii. at cathode

39. In the electrolysis of molten lead(II) bromide PbBr2(l ) using Graphite

(ii) Name the product at anode? ………………………………………………………………………

(i) What is observed at cathode? ……………………………………………………………………

(a) What happens to the ammeter reading if heat is removed? Why?