Answer:
When deionized water is electrolyzed, it has a very low conductivity, which means that it does not conduct electricity well. This is because there are no ions (charged particles) present in deionized water to carry an electrical charge.
By adding Na₂SO4 (sodium sulfate) to the deionized water, the chemist is introducing ions into the solution. Na₂SO4 dissociates into sodium ions (Na+) and sulfate ions (SO4 2-) in water. These ions increase the conductivity of the water, allowing for the flow of electric current during the electrolysis process.
Additionally, Na₂SO4 serves as an electrolyte that helps to transfer electrons between the electrodes during the electrolysis process. Without an electrolyte, the electric current would not be able to flow through the water, and electrolysis would not occur.
Therefore, the purpose of adding Na₂SO4 to deionized water is to increase its conductivity and serve as an electrolyte to facilitate the electrolysis process.