Electrolysis of Ionic Compounds: Molten and Aqueous Solutions

The video tutorial explains the concept of electrolytes and the process of electrolysis. It begins with the electrolysis of molten lead bromide, detailing how ions move towards electrodes to form bromine gas and solid lead. The tutorial then covers the electrolysis of aluminium oxide dissolved in cryolite, highlighting the role of graphite electrodes and the formation of oxygen gas and liquid aluminium. Finally, it discusses electrolysis in aqueous solutions, using copper sulfate as an example, and explains how the presence of different ions affects the products formed at the anode and cathode.

What is produced at the anode when electrolysis is performed on a solution containing sulfate ions?

In an aqueous solution, what determines whether hydrogen or a metal will be produced at the cathode?

Explain the expected observations when performing electrolysis on copper sulfate solution.