What Is a Hofmann Voltameter?

A Hofmann voltameter is an apparatus for electrolysing water, invented by August Wilhelm von Hofmann in 1866. It consists of three joined upright cylinders, usually glass.

What is Hofmann Voltameter used for?

Hofmann's voltameter is used for determining the chemical composition of water by volume. The apparatus consists of three vertical glass tubes connected to each other at the bottom.

How does the Hoffman apparatus work?

A Hoffman electrolysis apparatus collects the two gases separately and shows the 2 to 1 ratio nicely. If a pH indicator is used the anode becomes yellow and cathode becomes blue. Hydrogen gas can be burned to produce a small pop sound and the oxygen can be used to re-ignite a glowing wooden splint.