Question

What is the difference between thermal dissociation and electrolytic dissociation?

Answer 1

We know that dissociation means the breaking down of a compound into its simpler compounds. It can be done both thermally i.e., by the use of heat and by means of electricity.
Both these processes are very commonly used in Chemistry based on different requirements and only specific compounds will give these modes of dissociation.

Complete answer:

| ELECTROLYTIC DISSOCIATION| THERMAL DISSOCIATION
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Definition| It is the process in which an ionic compound dissociates into its ions (constituent particles) when electricity is passed through its aqueous solution.| It is the decomposition of a compound into its elements by the application of heat energy.
Mode of energy| Uses electricity| Uses Heat
Reversibility| It is a reversible process| It is generally an irreversible process
Ion formation in the reaction| Here ions are formed from ionic compounds. Covalent molecules do not show such dissociation.| Ions are not usually formed in this decomposition.
Electrodes| Electrodes help in this method. They attract the oppositely charged ions thus dissociating them.| Electrodes are not used. A heat source is the only requirement here.
State of reactant used| The compound has to be in its fused state or aqueous state.| It does matter.
Example| $NaCl$ (aqueous solution) will dissociate into $N{a^ + }$ and $C{l^ - }$ when electricity is passed through it | $N{H_4}Cl$ will split into $N{H_3}$ and $HCl$ when it is heated

Note:
Another mode of dissociation is Photo dissociation in which light is used for the dissociation of decomposition of the molecule. Here photons are responsible for the dissociation. Decomposition of ozone to oxygen in the atmosphere is one of the examples of photolytic dissociation.
$\Rightarrow {O_3}\xrightarrow{{h\nu }}{O_2} + O$