A potential difference (voltage) is applied between the two electrodes

The water molecules, which have a polarity, are forced to dissociate into H+ and OH-

The H+ ion (proton) is attracted to the cathode where it receives an electron a

nd becomes a neutral H atom

The H atom then encounters another like it, and forms a molecule of H2 gas

†Attracted to the anode, the negatively charged OH- ion gives up its extra electron and combines with 3 like
molecules to form 2 water molecules and one O2 molecule