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| Important Terms Related with Electrolysis |
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 Conductors |
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| All metals possess a large number of free electrons. Under ordinary conditions, these electrons move randomly in such a way that the net flow of charge across any section of the metal conductor is zero. Thus a conductor is void of any charge as such. But when the free electrons are made to flow in one direction, the electric current is said to flow through the conductor. |
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Electrolyte |
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| A compound (mostly an ionic compound) that conducts electricity in molten (fused) or aqueous (solution) state, and which simultaneously undergoes decomposition with the passage of electric current through it is known as an electrolyte. |
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Electrodes |
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| The two metallic conductors in the form of rods dipped in the electrolyte and connected to the two terminals of the battery are called electrodes. |
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| The anode is the electrode connected to the positive terminal of the battery. |
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| The cathode is the electrode connected to the negative terminal of the battery. |
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Anions |
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| The negatively charged atoms or group of atoms, which under the influence of an electric field migrate towards the anode (or positive electrode) are called anions. |
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Cations |
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| The positively charged atoms or group of atoms, which under the influence of an electric field migrate towards the cathode (or negative electrode) are called cations. |
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Electrolytic cell |
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| The container or a vessel consisting of the cathode, anode and the electrolyte is called an electrolytic cell. It is also known as a voltameter. |
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Battery or cell |
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| For a current to flow through a conductor, a difference in charge should be maintained between the two ends of the conductor. To ensure this, a cell or a battery is used. The cell or a battery converts its chemical energy into electrical energy thus maintaining a constant difference of charge between any two points. |
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