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When molten sodium chloride, NaCl, is electrolysed, the product formed at the cathode is: A - VCE - SSCE Chemistry - Question 9 - 2018 - Paper 1
Question 9
When molten sodium chloride, NaCl, is electrolysed, the product formed at the cathode is: A. sodium liquid, Na. B. hydrogen gas, H₂. C. chlorine gas, Cl₂. D. oxygen ... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:When molten sodium chloride, NaCl, is electrolysed, the product formed at the cathode is: A - VCE - SSCE Chemistry - Question 9 - 2018 - Paper 1
Step 1
Identify the Electrolysis Products
Answer
Upon electrolysis of molten sodium chloride (NaCl), the process separates the compound into its constituents. At the cathode, the reduction process occurs, allowing electrons to be gained by the ions present in the electrolyte. Sodium ions (Na⁺) would typically be reduced, but because the electrolysis of water is involved when moisture is present, hydrogen gas (H₂) can also be released at the cathode.
Step 2