Electrolysis Reactions—Student Laboratory Kit

Product Details

Build a simple electrochemical cell using a partitioned Petri dish and carbon (pencil lead) electrodes to investigate electrolysis reactions in the lab. When an electric current is passed through an aqueous solution containing sodium sulfate, an electrolyte, the water molecules decompose to give oxygen and hydrogen gas. What happens if the electrolyte contains ions that are more easily oxidized or more easily reduced than water molecules? Use this safe and economical activity to determine the products obtained in the electrolysis of aqueous potassium iodide, copper(II) bromide and sodium chloride solutions. The oxidation and reduction half-reactions are identified by comparing the indicator color changes, amount of gas and reactivity of the products generated at each electrode. This kit is a great way to bring the historical and industrial importance of electrolysis, from the discovery of the alkali metals to the production of aluminum, into the classroom. Includes reproducible student handouts, detailed background information, complete Teacher Notes with sample data and answers to all questions and all necessary chemicals and consumable supplies.

Complete for 30 students working in pairs. Super Value Kit is complete for 5 classes of 30 students working in pairs. 9-V batteries and battery caps with alligator clip leads are required and available separately.