ELECTROLYTIC CELL

"An electrochemical cell that converts electrical energy into chemical energy. The chemical reactions do not occur ""spontaneously"" at the electrodes when they are connected through an external circuit. The reaction must be forced by applying an external electrical current. It is used to store electrical energy in chemical form, see rechargeable battery. It is also used to decompose or produce (synthesize) new chemicals by application of electrical power. This process is called electrolysis, e.g., water can be decomposed into hydrogen gas and oxygen gas. The free energy change of the overall cell reaction is positive. "