Are the changes produced by electrolysis chemical or physical change in nature?

Electrolysis leads to chemical changes rather than physical ones. This process involves using electricity to break down compounds into their individual elements or simpler compounds.

Understanding Electrolysis

During electrolysis, a direct current is passed through a solution or molten substance, causing a chemical reaction. Here’s how it works:

• Breaking Bonds: The electrical energy disrupts the bonds between atoms in a compound.
• Formation of New Substances: Elements are separated and can react to form new substances.

Examples of Chemical Changes

Common examples of electrolysis include:

• Electrolysis of water, producing hydrogen and oxygen gases.
• Electrolysis of molten sodium chloride, yielding sodium and chlorine.

In summary, the changes brought about by electrolysis are fundamentally chemical, as they involve the transformation of substances at the molecular level. This distinguishes them from physical changes, which do not alter the chemical composition of materials.