The diagram shows how acidified water can be electrolysed using inert electrodes - Leaving Cert Chemistry - Question b - 2021
Question b
The diagram shows how acidified water can be electrolysed using inert electrodes. The overall reaction that takes place during the electrolysis is:
$$H_2O(l) \right... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:The diagram shows how acidified water can be electrolysed using inert electrodes - Leaving Cert Chemistry - Question b - 2021
Step 1
Define (i) oxidation, (ii) reduction, in terms of electron transfer.
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Answer
Oxidation is defined as the process whereby a substance loses electrons, resulting in an increase in oxidation state. Reduction, on the other hand, is the process whereby a substance gains electrons, leading to a decrease in oxidation state. These processes occur simultaneously in redox reactions.
Step 2
(iii) What is the ratio, by volume, of H2 to O2 produced?
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Answer
The ratio of hydrogen to oxygen produced in the electrolysis of water is 2:1. This can be derived from the balanced equation, where for every 2 moles of water electrolyzed, 2 moles of hydrogen gas and 1 mole of oxygen gas are produced.
Step 3
(iv) Identify a suitable material for use as the inert electrodes.
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Materials such as platinum or graphite are suitable for use as inert electrodes in the electrolysis of acidified water due to their resistance to corrosion and stability in the electrolytic environment.
Step 4
(v) At which electrode, X or Y, does oxidation take place?
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Oxidation takes place at the anode, which is electrode Y in the diagram. During electrolysis, oxygen is produced at the anode as water loses electrons.
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