Final answer:
Electrolysis is the term used to describe the process where direct current (DC) is utilized to drive a nonspontaneous chemical reaction. It's relevant in many applications, including metal refining and electroplating, and follows the principles laid out by Ohm's Law, where current is proportional to the applied voltage.
Step-by-step explanation:
The process in which direct current (DC) is used to cause a chemical reaction is called electrolysis. This process involves using electrical energy to drive a nonspontaneous chemical reaction. For example, when an external source of direct current is applied to a solution, such as NaCl, the chloride ions migrate to the positive electrode and undergo oxidation, subsequently releasing gaseous chlorine.
A common application of electrolysis is in the production of metals, plating of objects, and the production of chemical compounds. It is critical in the field of electrochemistry and is widely used in various industrial processes.
According to Ohm's Law, direct current that flows through substances is directly proportional to the voltage applied. This relationship is pivotal in electrolysis, as the amount of current can influence the rate and extent of the chemical reaction.