This memory aid covers Memory Aids within Electrolysis of Molten Compounds for GCSE Chemistry. Revise Electrolysis of Molten Compounds in Electrolysis for GCSE Chemistry with 21 exam-style questions and 14 flashcards. This topic appears regularly enough that it should still be part of a steady revision cycle. It is section 8 of 11 in this topic. Use it for quick recall, then test yourself straight afterwards so the memory aid becomes usable in an answer.
🧠 Memory Aids
CATions go to the CAThode, ANions go to the ANode
Both "CATion" and "CAThode" start with "CAT". Both "ANion" and "ANode" start with "AN". This makes it easy to remember which ion goes where.
OIL RIG — Oxidation Is Loss (of electrons), Reduction Is Gain (of electrons)
At the Anode = Oxidation (A and O are both vowels!)
At the Cathode = Reduction (both contain the letter C!)
For predicting molten products: "Metal at the Minus, Non-metal at the Plus" — cathode is negative (minus) → metal; anode is positive (plus) → non-metal.
Practice questions for Electrolysis of Molten Compounds
Which condition is required for electrolysis to occur with an ionic compound?
State the products formed at each electrode when molten lead bromide (PbBr₂) is electrolysed.