At room temperature, and atmospheric pressure, the reaction of 2 mol of H2 with

Question

At room temperature, and atmospheric pressure, the reaction of 2 mol of H2 with 1 mol of O2 to produce water occurs, but is extremely slow. Explain why this reaction is so slow, and why it is necessary to provide a spark (or flame) to the mixture of gases to increase the speed of the reaction. 2H2(g) + O2(g) ? 2H2O(l)

At room temperature, and atmospheric pressure, the decomposition of liquid water to produce H2 and O2 does not occur. However, this reaction does occur when an electric current is passed through liquid water. Explain why an electric current is needed in order for this reaction to occur. 2H2O(l) ? 2H2(g) + O2(g)

Explanation / Answer

The reaction is very slow because there is no enough energy to further the reaction. The addition of a spark in the reaction gives heat to the reaction and making it achieve the energy required to forward the reaction.

The process is called water splitting. This is a reaction that requires electric current, then the process is called electrolysis. High energy, provided by the electric current, is required so that the reaction will happen. The electric current will provide that energy so that the reaction is possible.

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