Electrochemistry is the study of chemical processes that cause the movement of electrons. Redox reactions are reactions that include changes in the oxidation states of elements. Oxidation is the process by which a substance loses electrons, and reduction is the process by which a substance gains electrons. The oxidized substance is called reducing agent and the reduced substance is called oxidizing agent. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get an original essay In order to cause redox reactions in electrolytic cells, the use of an external source of electrical energy is necessary; otherwise, the reaction would not be spontaneous. Electrolytic cells are composed of two half-cells, and the direction of electron flow in electrolytic cells is from anode to cathode. During the electrolysis process, an electric current passes through a solution of an ionic compound called an electrolyte. Redox reactions, which occur at the electrodes, form electrically neutral products after removal of charges on the ions. Components of an Electrolytic Cell (Figure from Pearson IB HL Chemistry Textbook) This investigation will include electrolysis using copper electrodes. Copper is widely considered to be an effective electrical conductor. The net reaction of copper electrolysis will be the movement of Cu2+(aq) from where it is produced at the anode to the cathode where it is discharged as Cu(s). The changes observed at the electrodes are a pinkish brown color of the Cu deposited on the cathode, a disintegration of the Cu anode, no change in the pH of the solution, and no change in the intensity of the blue color of the solution. because Cu2+ ions are both formed and removed from solution so that their concentration remains constant. Keep in mind: this is just a sample. Get a personalized paper now from our expert writers. Get a Custom Essay The result of electrolysis of copper in a copper sulfate solution is that the copper will be electrolytic onto the cathode. Electroplating is the process of plating one metal onto another using electrolysis. Electroplating was first discovered in 1805 by Luigi Brugnatelli. In 1840, the Elkington cousins ​​devised a workable electroplating method for gold and silver that became widely used throughout the world. The first step in the electroplating process involves depositing a negative charge on a metal. Once the metal contains a negative charge, that metal is then immersed in an electrolyte solution containing positively charged metal ions. Once the metal is placed in the solution, the two metals are attracted to each other. Electroplating allows manufacturers to use inexpensive metals for the interior of their products and then apply different metals to the exterior to prevent corrosion of one metal. Electroplating is also used for decorative purposes in the jewelry and automobile industries..