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electrodialysis

chemical reaction

Quick Summary

Electrodialysis is a process that accelerates dialysis, which is the separation of suspended colloidal particles from dissolved ions or molecules. This separation occurs due to their differing rates of diffusion through semipermeable membranes. In electrodialysis, an electric field is applied across electrodes adjacent to the membranes, speeding up the movement of charged particles.12

This method is used in desalination, where electrical potential drives positive and negative ions of dissolved salts through separate ion-exchange membranes, leaving fresh water in between. While dialysis itself is a slow process, electrodialysis offers a more rapid separation.342

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