Electrolysis of Water

We use electrolysis to break water molecules down into hydrogen and oxygen. This is done using the Hoffman apparatus. Water is added to the apparatus along with some dilute sulfuric acid. When a current is passed through the water, hydrogen is collected in one column and oxygen in the other. The presence of hydrogen is tested using a lit splint, which burns with a pop. While the presence of oxygen is tested using a glowing splint which relights. Chemistry - Reactions - Learning Points. Water containing a small amount of sulfuric acid can conduct electricity. Hofmann electrolysis apparatus converts water to hydrogen gas and oxygen gas. Electrolysis of water produces twice as much hydrogen gas as oxygen gas. Electrolysis of water is used on the International Space Station to produce oxygen. A Twig Experiment Film. Let students experience real experiments in lab conditions anywhere, from setup, method all the way through to analysis and real-world application.