Problem 38 - A Complete Resource Book in Chemistry for JEE Main

Question

Laws of electrolysis was given by (a) Faraday (b) Ostwald (c) Arrhenius (d) Lamark

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

Faraday formulated the laws of electrolysis.

Step 1: Understanding the Question

The question asks which scientist formulated the laws of electrolysis. The options provided are scientists known for their contributions to chemistry and physics.

Step 2: Identifying the Right Scientist

The laws of electrolysis, known for describing the relationship between the amount of substance altered at an electrode and the quantity of electricity used, were formulated by Michael Faraday.

Step 3: Elimination of Incorrect Options

Ostwald, Arrhenius, and Lamark all contributed to different areas of science. Ostwald is known for his work in chemical kinetics, Arrhenius for his theory on electrolytic dissociation, and Lamark for his early work in evolution, none of which directly relate to the laws of electrolysis.

Key Concepts

Electrolysis

Electrolysis is a fascinating process involving the use of electricity to drive a non-spontaneous chemical reaction. This technique is particularly useful in various industries, such as in the production of metals like aluminum and chlorine gas.
In electrolysis, an electrolyte containing free ions is subjected to an electric current. This causes ions in the solution to move towards the electrodes, resulting in chemical reactions. The electrode at which oxidation occurs is called the anode, while reduction occurs at the cathode.

• Anode: Oxidation takes place here, losing electrons.
• Cathode: Reduction occurs here, gaining electrons.

This process is critical in fields such as metallurgy, electroplating, and manufacturing. Understanding the basics of electrolysis helps in realizing its importance in modern applications.

Electrochemistry

Electrochemistry refers to the branch of chemistry that studies the relationship between electricity and chemical reactions. It's a field that merges elements of both physics and chemistry to explain how electric currents can be produced by chemical reactions and vice-versa.
A key concept in electrochemistry is the electrochemical cell, which can either generate electricity from a chemical reaction or use electricity to drive a chemical change. These cells can be further divided into:

• Galvanic (or Voltaic) Cells: These convert chemical energy into electrical energy spontaneously.
• Electrolytic Cells: These require external electricity to drive a chemical reaction.

Electrochemical cells are the foundation for batteries and the broader field of portable energy, powering countless devices in everyday life.

Faraday's Contributions to Chemistry

Michael Faraday made significant contributions to chemistry through his deep understanding of electromagnetism and electrochemistry, impacting how we perceive and utilize electricity.
Faraday formulated two fundamental laws of electrolysis, which defined how electric current causes chemical change:

• First Law of Electrolysis: The mass of the substance altered at an electrode during electrolysis is proportional to the amount of electricity used.
• Second Law of Electrolysis: The mass of different substances altered by the same amount of electricity are proportional to their equivalent weights.

Faraday's insights paved the way for advances in chemical equations and processes, helping scientists understand the interchangeability of chemical elements via electrical action. His work continues to influence modern science, making him a pivotal figure in electrochemistry.