Electrolysis and drift currents

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SUMMARY

In electrolysis, both positive and negative drift currents are essential for the process to function effectively. The discussion confirms that if only one type of drift current were present, electrolysis would cease due to charge buildup. Specifically, the separation of charges occurs as electrons are removed from atoms, necessitating the movement of both positive ions and electrons to maintain the electrolysis process. The inability of heavier positive ions to move as easily as lighter electrons further complicates the situation, reinforcing the necessity of both currents.

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somasimple
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Hi,
If there is an electrolysic in a vat, there is a positive and negative drift current betwwen the electrodes.
Is it possible to have a situation where there is only one (either positive or negative) drift current?
Thanks
 
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I don't think so, because in electrolysis you're ripping electrons off of their atoms. This results in a separation of charges and if you don't pull the positive ions away you'll quickly run into a situation where the positive charge buildup is so large that you can no longer pull any electrons away, stopping the electrolysis process.
 
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But in a conductor, if we apply a potential suddenly, the light electrons can move easily but the heavier positive ions cannot.
 

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