• Lead(II) bromide is a binary ionic compound meaning that it is a compound consisting of just two elements joined together by ionic bonding
• When these compounds are heated beyond their melting point, they become molten and can conduct electricity as their ions can move freely and carry the charge
• These compounds undergo electrolysis and always produce their corresponding element
• To predict the products of any binary molten compound first identify the ions present
• The?positive?ion will migrate towards the?cathode?and the?negative?ion will migrate towards the?anode
• Therefore the?cathode?product will always be the metal and the product formed at the?anode?will always be the?non-metal

Diagram showing the electrolysis of lead(II) bromide

Method:

• Add lead(II) bromide into a crucible and heat so it will turn molten, allowing ions to be free to move and conduct an electric charge
• Add two graphite rods as the electrodes and connect this to a power pack or battery
• Turn on the power pack or battery and allow electrolysis to take place
• Negative bromide ions move to the positive electrode (anode) and lose two electrons to form bromine molecules. There is bubbling at the anode as brown bromine gas is given off
• Positive lead ions move to the negative electrode (cathode) and gain electrons to form grey lead metal which deposits on the bottom of the electrode

Electrode Products:Anode:?Bromine gas

Cathode:?Lead metal 

The electrolysis of aqueous solutions

• The apparatus can be modified for the collection of gases by using inverted test tubes over the electrodes
• The electrodes are made from graphite which is inert and does not interfere with the electrolysis reactions