What process is referred to as electrolysis?

Electrolysis is specifically defined as the process of breaking down a substance due to the passage of an electric current through it. This typically occurs in an electrolytic cell where an electrolyte, which is a substance that conducts electricity when dissolved in a solvent or molten state, is subjected to an electric current. The electric current causes the ions within the electrolyte to move towards the electrodes, where they can undergo chemical changes, leading to the decomposition of the compound. This process is widely utilized in various applications, including electroplating, water splitting to produce hydrogen and oxygen gases, and metal refining.