Water Electrolysis & Hydrogen Electrolysers – Fact Sheet

Topic

Energy

Year Level

Years 7-10

Subject

Science

Sector

Energy & Renewables

Australian Curriculum Content Statements
v9.0
v8.4

Introduction

This sheet provides a concise explanation of electrolysis and in more detail the electrolysis of water.  It includes information, diagrams and the half reactions of the three main types of electrolyser cells used to produce hydrogen from the electrolysis of water.

Educational Value Statement

  • Describes electrolysis, in particular water electrolysis.
  • Describes and illustrates the three types of electrolyser cells used in water electrolysis for hydrogen production. 
  • Explains the half reactions that occur at the anodes and cathodes for each type of electrolyser.
  • Can be downloaded as a PDF File.


Key Learning Objectives

  • Students describe electrolysis.
  • Students identify the half reactions that occur at the anodes and cathodes for each type of electrolyser. 
  • Students can understand that there are three different electrolyser cells for water electrolysis.
  • Students can understand that there are different processes by which hydrogen gas can be produce though electrolysis.


Strands

  • Science Understanding: Chemical sciences