Water Electrolysis H2 Production

Abhishek Subedi
abhisheksdi96@gmail.com

PROJECT OBJECTIVE

To Demonstrate the Production of H2 Gas Via Electrolysis Using Household Equipment.

MATERIALS REQUIRED

  1. Container
  2. Plastic slit
  3. Spoon x 2 and wires
  4. Pen shell
  5. Plastics
  6. Distilled water
  7. Charger

THEORY

Electrolysis of water is the process by which water is decomposed into oxygen and hydrogen gas, when electric current is passed through it. Water molecule is decomposed into H+ and OH- ions, when electric current is passed through it. These ions move to oppositely charged electrodes and are liberated as gases.

Chemical reaction:

2H2O ——> 2H2 + O2

Half reactions:

Reduction of Hydrogen: 2H2O + 2e–——> H2 + 2OH–
Oxidation of Oxygen: 2H2O ——> O2 + 4H+ + 4e–

Figure 1 Conceptual Experimental Setup

PROCEDURES:

  1. Plastic container was taken and cleaned.
  2. Plastic slit was inserted.
  3. Two spoons were placed in and wires (red= +ve and black= -ve) were connected as
    shown in figure.
  4. Two pen shells were placed in as shown in figure for the outlet of gases.
  5. Plastics were tightened to the external end of pen shells for the collection of gases. Black
    tape was used to prevent leakage through spoons inlets.
  6. 700 ml of distilled water was kept in the container and lid was tightened.
  7. Power supply of 5V 2.1 A was connected and the process was observed.

 

Figure 2 Procedures and Development

OBSERVATIONS, UNDERSTANDINGS AND RECOMMENDATION

S.N. Observation Understandings Recommendations
1 It took less than a minute to demonstrate the reactional change in the water. Because of the use of 5V 2.1 A DC supply and Addition of salt (1 spoon) in distilled water act as a catalyst.  
2 Significant amount of gas was produced in around 40 minutes of time duration. Time duration could be less than that but leakage through pen shells and mixing of gas in between the slit is the reason. Leak proof tapes or adhesives can be used to prevent leakage. Different arrangements can be used for positioning the slit as to stop mixing the gases.
3 Black yellowish color in the water. Because of the surface erosion of slit and spoon. Non-corrosive and non-erosive materials can be used.