Electrolysis in chemistry involves a current initiating a reaction, not just passing electricity through. Students learn that electrolysis can produce chlorine from saltwater.
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Industrial Use
Electrolysis is often used in industries, like extracting metals or making compounds. Electrolysis is key in refining aluminum from bauxite ore.
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Requires Energy
The process requires an external electric source to occur, unlike spontaneous reactions. A battery was connected to initiate the electrolysis of the solution.