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, 201014 yr by physicist danny

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.

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, 201114 yr by Ethereally Luminous