Question #8b592
1 Answer
Jul 21, 2016
See the explanation and video.
Explanation:
In the electrolytic decomposition of water, hydrogen accumulates at the cathode and oxygen accumulates at the anode. You can use a wooden splint to test for each.
To test for hydrogen, place a burning splint into the test tube that collected the gas from the cathode. If hydrogen is present, there will be a popping sound.
To test for oxygen, place a glowing splint into the test tube that collected gas from the anode. The splint should burst into flame if oxygen is present, however, sometimes it only makes the glowing ember become brighter.
