single electrode electrolysis?

[physicist danny]

consider a set up where you have a single electrode in contact with for example salt water. then you have an insulating coating over a metal plate on one surface of the liquid such that it acts as a capacitor. so when an AC voltage is applied you have current flowing into and out of the salt solution so surely electrolysis can occur? diagram at link (crudely drawn on paint).

 

just a curiosity.

 

http://img3.imagesha...ectrolysis.jpg/

Edited December 29, 2010 by physicist danny

[Schrödinger's hat]

Well, yes, until your capacitor got charged, then the voltage would become prohibitive or your dielectric would break down. AC would not work as you would constantly reverse your changes.

[Ethereally Luminous]

The topic title reminds me of something I cam across one day while playing with 9V batteries and tap water. I noticed that if i connected one terminal to the side of a glass jar and connect the other to a metal rod that is placed in the water, the result would be tiny amounts of bubbling..very tiny but noticeable. I never really bothered to research why. I just figured that the glass was able to carry the current somewhat and create small current of bubbles. Same effect in a metal container.

Edited February 1, 2011 by Ethereally Luminous