Chemistry
Electrolysis is a redox process. Explain.
Electrolysis
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Answer
During electrolysis, the reaction at the cathode involves reduction of cations as they gain electrons to become neutral atoms while that at anode involves oxidation of anions as they lose electrons to become neutral. As redox reactions are reactions where oxidation and reduction takes place simultaneously. Hence, electrolysis is a redox process.
Example : Dissociation of sodium chloride during electrolysis.
NaCl ⇌ Na+ + Cl-
At cathode : Na+ + e- ⟶ Na (reduction)
At anode : Cl- - e- ⟶ Cl (oxidation)
Cl + Cl ⟶ Cl2
Overall reaction: 2NaCl ⟶ 2Na + Cl2
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Related Questions
What is the difference between Strong electrolyte and weak electrolyte
Name:
(a) a salt which is a weak electrolyte
(b) a base which is a weak electrolyte
(c) an inert electrode and an active electrode
(d) a positively charged non-metallic ion
(e) the electrode at which reduction occurs
(f) a non-metallic element which is a conductor of electricity
Classify the following substances under three headings:
(a) strong electrolytes
(b) weak electrolytes
(c) non-electrolytes
Acetic acid, ammonium chloride, ammonium hydroxide, carbon tetrachloride, dilute hydrochloric acid, sodium acetate, dilute sulphuric acid.
Explain why:
(a) Cu, though a good conductor of electricity, is a non electrolyte.
(b) Solid sodium chloride does not allow electricity to pass through.