•...It is because pure water is a bad conductor of electricity.
So it would not conduct electricity.
But if we add a few drops of sulphuric acid(H2SO4), the water becomes acidulated.
Acidulated water contains acid which is a good conductor of electricity.
So the acidulated water becomes conducting and hence electricity is conducted.

Introduction:

Electrolysis of water is a process of splitting water into its constituent elements, hydrogen and oxygen, using electricity. The process involves passing an electric current through a solution of water with a small amount of an electrolyte added.

Why H2SO4 is added:

Sulfuric acid (H2SO4) is added to the water being electrolyzed because it helps in the process by acting as an electrolyte. An electrolyte is a substance that conducts electricity when dissolved in water. It helps to increase the conductivity of the water, which in turn increases the speed of the reaction.

Role of H2SO4 in Electrolysis of Water:

H2SO4 plays a crucial role in the electrolysis of water by performing the following functions:

• Acts as an Electrolyte: The addition of H2SO4 to the water being electrolyzed increases the concentration of ions in the solution, which increases its conductivity. This makes it easier for the electric current to pass through the solution, thus increasing the rate of the reaction.


• Prevents the Formation of Rust: When water is electrolyzed, it tends to break down into its constituent elements, hydrogen and oxygen. This can lead to the formation of rust in the electrodes. However, the addition of H2SO4 to the water helps to prevent the formation of rust by neutralizing any rust-inducing substances in the water.


• Increases the Efficiency of the Reaction: The addition of H2SO4 to the water being electrolyzed helps to increase the efficiency of the reaction by reducing the amount of energy required to split the water molecules into hydrogen and oxygen.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the addition of H2SO4 to the water being electrolyzed is essential for the success of the process. It acts as an electrolyte, prevents the formation of rust, and increases the efficiency of the reaction.