Electrolysis Anthology

Overview

Objectives/Goals The purpose of this year#s science project was to explore the process of electrolysis of water by using a Hoffman apparatus. Specifically, we tested the variables of the voltage, electrode material, the electrode#s surface area, and mass. Our tests included fifteen separate trials in five (changing electrode materials) sets of three (changing the voltage). Methods/Materials The metals used in our test were aluminum, copper, iron, and magnesium, while the control would be an inert semiconductor, graphite carbon. We learned that during water electrolysis, an electrolyte is necessary, and we chose to use a one percent, solution of NaHCO3. In respect to voltage, we tested our anodes and cathodes using three, four and a half, and six volts of electricity; each trial lasted for a period of eight hours. Our means of data collection consisted of observing the products of gas, oxides, and hydroxides using inverted containers to measure the production of hydrogen over the cathode and oxygen over the anode. Results The results revealed that although larger surface area yields more chemical reaction with the electrodes, the electrode must be able to sustain the voltage passing through it in order to create such a reaction. Additionally, an increase in voltage increased the reaction rate exponentially, while for some peculiar reason, a higher electrical resistance in the electrodes tended to cause a greater reaction. Also, we deduced that certain ratios in the data can yield answers as to what the electrodes reacted with inside of the water. Conclusions/Discussion Electrolysis Anthology produced applicable information that may possibly influence a myriad of industry including, the paint companies (used in pigment production) the boating industries (preservation of the metals exposed to the salt water electrolyte solution), and hydrogen production plants. Although, it is conceivable, and rather likely, such industries may have already conducted similar tests.

Competition history

• CSEF 2008 Chemistry · Entry S0506

Resources

• CSEF project summary ↗

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