what is electrolysis class 10

Electrolysis is a process in which an electric current is passed through a fluid (either a molten ionic compound or an ionic compound dissolved in a suitable solvent) to decompose it into its constituent elements. The process involves the migration of cations towards the cathode, where they are reduced, and anions towards the anode, where they are oxidized. The main components required to conduct electrolysis are an electrolyte, electrodes, and an external power source. Electrolysis is usually done in a vessel called an electrolytic cell, which contains two electrodes (cathode and anode) connected to a direct current source and an electrolyte. Electrolysis has many applications, including the determination of equivalent weight of substances, metallurgy of alkali and alkaline earth metals, purification of metals, and manufacture of pure gases. The process of electrolysis is used in the extraction of metals from their ores, electroplating, and refining of metals.