The process of breaking water into hydrogen and oxygen is called electrolysis.

Here's how it works:

1. Electricity is applied: A direct electric current is passed through water.

2. Electrodes: The electricity is applied using two electrodes, usually made of inert materials like platinum or stainless steel, submerged in the water.

3. Chemical reaction: The electricity causes the water molecules (H₂O) to break down into their constituent elements: hydrogen gas (H₂) and oxygen gas (O₂).

4. Gas collection: The hydrogen gas is collected at the negative electrode (cathode), and the oxygen gas is collected at the positive electrode (anode).

The chemical equation for this process is:

2H₂O → 2H₂ + O₂

Note: Electrolysis requires a significant amount of electrical energy, making it an energy-intensive process.