How does a water cell work?

A water cell, in its most basic form, works by using electrolysis to split water into hydrogen and oxygen gas.

Here's a breakdown of the process:

• Components: A typical water cell consists of two electrodes (usually metal) immersed in water. The reference specifies salt water, which enhances conductivity.

• Electrolysis: The core principle is electrolysis. This process uses electricity to decompose water (H₂O) into its constituent elements: hydrogen (H₂) and oxygen (O₂).

• Electrical Current: When a direct current (DC) from a battery or other power source is applied across the electrodes, it drives the electrolysis process. The current does the work, not voltage.

• Electrode Reactions:

  • At the cathode (negative electrode), water is reduced, producing hydrogen gas and hydroxide ions (OH⁻).
  • At the anode (positive electrode), water is oxidized, producing oxygen gas, hydrogen ions (H⁺), and electrons.

• Gas Collection: The hydrogen and oxygen gases bubble up from the electrodes and can be collected separately.

In summary, a water cell uses electrical current to break the chemical bonds in water molecules, separating them into hydrogen and oxygen gases.