NaOH is prepared by the electrolysis of : a)aqueous solution of sodium...
At anode :
2CI- → CI2 + 2e
At cathode :
2H+ + 2e → H2
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NaOH is prepared by the electrolysis of : a)aqueous solution of sodium...
Answer:
The preparation of NaOH by electrolysis involves the use of an aqueous solution of sodium chloride (NaCl) with platinum electrodes. This process is known as the chlor-alkali process and is widely used for the production of sodium hydroxide (NaOH) and chlorine gas (Cl2).
Explanation:
1. Chlor-Alkali Process:
The chlor-alkali process is an industrial method used to produce chlorine gas, sodium hydroxide, and hydrogen gas. It involves the electrolysis of a solution containing sodium chloride.
2. Electrolysis of Sodium Chloride Solution:
In the chlor-alkali process, an aqueous solution of sodium chloride is electrolyzed using platinum electrodes. The electrolysis cell consists of a cathode (negative electrode) and an anode (positive electrode) immersed in the sodium chloride solution.
3. Role of Platinum Electrodes:
Platinum electrodes are used in this process because they are inert and do not react with the electrolyte or the products formed during electrolysis. This ensures that the electrodes do not undergo any chemical changes and can be reused multiple times.
4. Electrolysis Reactions:
At the cathode:
2H2O + 2e- -> H2 + 2OH-
At the anode:
2Cl- -> Cl2 + 2e-
5. Formation of Sodium Hydroxide:
During the electrolysis, hydrogen gas (H2) is formed at the cathode, while chlorine gas (Cl2) is formed at the anode. The hydroxide ions (OH-) produced at the cathode react with the remaining sodium ions (Na+) in the solution to form sodium hydroxide (NaOH).
6. Overall Reaction:
2Na+ + 2H2O -> H2 + 2NaOH
7. Importance of Platinum Electrodes:
Platinum electrodes are necessary for this process because they do not react with the chlorine or hydroxide ions. If reactive electrodes were used, they would interfere with the desired reactions and contaminate the sodium hydroxide product.
Therefore, the correct option is 'A' - aqueous solution of sodium chloride with platinum electrodes.