Final answer:
When water is broken down into its elements through processes like electrolysis or thermolysis, the hydrogen undergoes oxidation.
Step-by-step explanation:
When water is broken down into its elements through processes like electrolysis or thermolysis, the hydrogen undergoes oxidation. This means it loses electrons and increases its oxidation state. Here's what happens in detail:
- The chemical formula of water is H₂O. This indicates that one molecule of water contains two hydrogen atoms (H) bonded to one oxygen atom (O).
During the breakdown:
- Two hydrogen ions (H⁺) are formed by losing one electron each. These electrons combine with a suitable acceptor (depending on the specific breakdown process) to maintain charge balance.
- The remaining oxygen atom gains two electrons, becoming an oxide ion (O²⁻).
Therefore, the hydrogen atoms essentially lose electrons and transform into hydrogen ions (H⁺). These ions can further form hydrogen gas (H₂) under standard conditions (room temperature and pressure).