In the electrolysis of molten sodium chloride, which species is reduced at the cathode and which is oxidized at the anode?

Study for the AC-HPAT Chemistry Test. Explore flashcards and multiple choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Prepare effectively and excel in your upcoming exam!

Multiple Choice

In the electrolysis of molten sodium chloride, which species is reduced at the cathode and which is oxidized at the anode?

Explanation:
In electrolysis of molten salts, cations move to the cathode to gain electrons (be reduced) and anions move to the anode to lose electrons (be oxidized). In molten NaCl, the only cation present is Na+, so it is reduced at the cathode to form sodium metal. The only anion is Cl-, which loses electrons at the anode to become chlorine gas. So the cathode involves Na+, reduced, and the anode involves Cl-, oxidized.

In electrolysis of molten salts, cations move to the cathode to gain electrons (be reduced) and anions move to the anode to lose electrons (be oxidized). In molten NaCl, the only cation present is Na+, so it is reduced at the cathode to form sodium metal. The only anion is Cl-, which loses electrons at the anode to become chlorine gas. So the cathode involves Na+, reduced, and the anode involves Cl-, oxidized.

More Multiple Choice Questions
Subscribe

Get the latest from Passetra

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy