Some practical applications of electrolyte

Electroplating: This is the process of coating of one metal over another metal by electrolysis. The articles of cheap metals can be coated with precious metals to make them more attractive or to prevent corrosion. The conducting material to be electroplated is used as cathode and the metal to be coated is used as anode.

Purification of metals:  This method is used in the refining of metals like copper, zinc, tin, etc. The anode is made of impure metal and the cathode is made of pure metal. The electrolyte used is a soluble salt of pure metals. On passing the current the pure metal is deposited on the cathode.

Chemical analysis: The chemical composition of salts can be found out by electrolysis.

Printing industry:  The metal copies used in printing books, gramophones records, etc. can be made by using the process of electrolysis.

Medical application: Electrolysis is used for stimulating nerves, especially for treating polio and also for unwanted hair removal. Manufacture of chemicals by electrolysis like sodium hydroxide, sodium chloride, pure sodium, etc. can be manufactured.

Electrolytic capacitors:  They are prepared by depositing a thin film of aluminium oxide on aluminium anode during electrolysis which acts as dielectric between the two electrodes. The electrolyte is a mixture of boric acid, glycerin and ammonium hydroxide. Due to oxide deposit, capacitors have very large capacitance.

Production of gases for commercial use: Gases like oxygen and hydrogen are obtained by the electrolysis of acidulated water on commercial scale.