When electricity is passed through water, what kind of chemical reaction occurs?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: A
Explanation
The correct answer is option 1 i.e. Decomposition.
When electricity is passed through water, a decomposition reaction occurs, specifically electrolysis. In this process, water (H₂O) is split into its constituent elements: hydrogen (H₂) and oxygen (O₂) gases. During electrolysis, an electric current is applied through electrodes submerged in water, causing chemical bonds to break. Hydrogen gas is produced at the cathode (negative electrode), while oxygen gas forms at the anode (positive electrode). This reaction not only demonstrates the principles of chemistry and electricity but also has practical applications, such as hydrogen production for fuel cells and various industrial processes.