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Answer 1 · 2015-11-07T18:25:25

There are numerous techniques to "split" water but the most notable (and simplest one, I think) is through process of electrolysis.

Electrolysis can be defined as the chemical decomposition of a substance by passing a certain amount of electric current through it.

The electrolysis of water can be described by the below equations:

#2H_2O (l)# + electricity #rarr# #2H_2 (g)# + #O_2 (g)# (overall reaction)

Half reactions:

Reduction: #2H_2O (l)# + #2e^−# #rarr# #H_2 (g)# + #2OH^− (aq)#
Oxidation: #4OH^− (aq)# #rarr# #O_2 (g)# + #2H_2O (l)# + #4e^−#

Watch this link on how water electrolysis works.