Final answer:
Electrolysis has various applications, such as electroplating, metal extraction, chlorine production, and metal refining. In the electrolysis of molten lead(II) iodide, an electric current is passed to yield pure lead and iodine gas.
Step-by-step explanation:
Some applications of electrolysis include electroplating, extraction of metals, production of chlorine and caustic soda, and refining of metals. For example, the electrolysis of molten lead(II) iodide is carried out to obtain pure lead and iodine. During this process, the molten salt acts as an electrolyte and, when electricity is applied, lead ions move towards the cathode and are reduced to lead metal, while iodide ions move towards the anode and are oxidized to iodine gas.
Process of Electrolysis:
Lead(II) iodide is heated until it melts.
An electrical current is passed through the molten salt.
Lead ions (Pb2+) are reduced to lead metal at the cathode.
Iodide ions (I-) are oxidized to iodine gas at the anode.