Electrolysis can be investigated using

1. Analyze the Question

The question asks for the specific apparatus used to investigate or perform the process of electrolysis. You need to distinguish between measuring instruments and the actual vessel where the chemical reaction occurs.

2. Explain the Concept

• Electrolysis is the process of using an electric current to drive a non-spontaneous chemical reaction. This process requires a container to hold the electrolyte (the substance being decomposed) and the electrodes (the conductors through which current enters or leaves the electrolyte).
• Voltameter (or Electrolytic Cell): This is the vessel or apparatus designed specifically for electrolysis. It contains the electrolyte and the electrodes.
• Voltmeter: This is an instrument used to measure the potential difference (voltage) between two points in an electrical circuit.
• Ammeter: This is an instrument used to measure the current flowing through a circuit.
• Galvanometer: This is a sensitive instrument used to detect and measure small electric currents.

3. Show the Solution

• To investigate electrolysis, you need a setup that allows current to pass through a liquid (electrolyte).
• While an ammeter and voltmeter are used in the circuit to monitor the current and voltage during the experiment, they are measuring instruments, not the apparatus where the electrolysis itself takes place.
• The voltameter is the specific name for the electrolytic cell used in laboratory experiments to study the decomposition of substances by electricity.

Note: Be careful not to confuse "Voltameter" with "Voltmeter." They sound similar, but they serve completely different purposes.

4. Identify the Answer

The correct option is D.

5. Exam Tip

A simple way to remember this is:

• Voltmeter = Measures Volts (Potential difference).
• Voltameter = A Vessel for electrolysis (think of the 'a' as standing for the apparatus).