This question is about the electrolysis of aqueous solutions - AQA - GCSE Chemistry Combined Science - Question 5 - 2021 - Paper 1
Question 5
This question is about the electrolysis of aqueous solutions.
Hydrogen gas and chlorine gas are produced when sodium chloride solution is electrolysed.
Hydrogen io... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:This question is about the electrolysis of aqueous solutions - AQA - GCSE Chemistry Combined Science - Question 5 - 2021 - Paper 1
Step 1
What type of reaction happens at the negative electrode? Give the reason for your answer.
96%
114 rated
Only available for registered users.
Sign up now to view full answer, or log in if you already have an account!
Answer
Type of reaction: Reduction
Reason: This is a reduction reaction because hydrogen ions (H+) gain electrons to form hydrogen gas (H2).
Step 2
Complete the half equation for the production of chlorine gas (Cl2).
99%
104 rated
Only available for registered users.
Sign up now to view full answer, or log in if you already have an account!
Answer
Cl- → Cl2 + 2e-
Step 3
Explain how oxygen gas is produced in the electrolysis of sodium sulfate solution.
96%
101 rated
Only available for registered users.
Sign up now to view full answer, or log in if you already have an account!
Answer
Oxygen gas is produced by the oxidation of water molecules. At the anode, water molecules are broken down to produce hydroxide ions (OH-), which are then oxidized, releasing oxygen gas (O2) as a byproduct.