GSC 501 Quick Start Manual

GSC International Inc.
Phone: 417.374.7431
Fax: 417.374.7442
Toll Free: 888.756.4592
service@gosciencecrazy.com
2076 James River Court
Nixa, Missouri 65714

Warning:

• Intended for use in
classroom settings under
the supervision of
qualified professionals.
• This product is not a toy
and is not intended for
children under the age of 13.
• This item contains latex.
• This item contains small parts.
• California Proposition 65 Warning: This
product can expose you to chemicals
including lead, which is known to the
State of California to cause cancer,
birth defects, or other reproductive
harm. For more information go to
www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.
Since water is a poor conductor, prepare a small amount of 2% solution of sulfuric acid as follows. Measure 363
ml distilled water in a 500 ml borosilicate beaker with a spout. Carefully and slowly add 4 ml concentrated
sulfuric acid. Stir to mix and allow to cool to room temperature. (Always use caution when handling acid.
Always add acid to water, not water to acid. Always wear eye protection.)
Electrolysis Apparatus
#501

Introduction

The Electrolysis Apparatus is used to demonstrate that
electrically conductive liquids can be decomposed and resolved
into their constituent elements by means of unidirectional
electric current. The gaseous components formed are trapped,
and their relative volumes are measured.

Description

The assembled Electrolysis Apparatus is shown in the
illustration. The glassware unit consists of two vertical tubes
joined to a cross-tube near the bottom. Two graduated tubes
are placed over the ends of the "H" tubes and are used to
collect and measure gases. Each electrode assembly consists of
platinum electrodes connected to a wire lead sealed within a
glass tube, which passes through the rubber stopper. Lead
wires protruding from the sealed glass tube are used to connect
to a DC power supply.

Pre-Experiment Procedure

• Assemble the cast base and the vertical rod. Attach the
"H" tube to the vertical upright support rod using the
buret clamp.
• Slide the graduated tubes over the open ends of the "H"
tube.
• Remove the rubber stoppers with the platinum electrode
assemblies from the tubes in which they were packed.
• Insert an electrode in the open, tapered end of the "H"
tubes. Carefully press upward on the rubber stoppers to
ensure tight closures.
• Carefully straighten the lead wires protruding from the
glass tubes and rubber stoppers.
• Connect the leads to a DC power supply such as a 6-volt
battery. If a battery is used, install a knife switch on one
lead as an on/off switch.
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