Chapter 19, Problem 125SAE

Interpretation Introduction

(a)

Interpretation:

The probable products when Pt electrodes are used in the electrolysis of ${\text{CuCl}}_{\text{2}}\left(aq\right)$ should be predicted.

Concept introduction:

Electrolysis of aqueous solutions:

Possible cathode half-cell reactions are,

• Reduction of H₂O
• Reduction of cations in the solution

Possible anode half-cell reactions are

• Oxidation of H₂O
• Oxidation of active metal electrodes
• Oxidation of anions in the solution

The half-cell reaction with higher reduction potential occurs at the cathode and half-cell reaction with lower reduction potential occurs at the anode.

Interpretation Introduction

(b)

Interpretation:

The probable products when Pt electrodes are used in the electrolysis of ${\text{Na}}_{\text{2}}{\text{SO}}_{\text{4}}\left(aq\right)$ should be predicted.

Concept introduction:

Electrolysis of aqueous solutions:

Possible cathode half-cell reactions are,

• Reduction of H₂O
• Reduction of cations in the solution

Possible anode half-cell reactions are

• Oxidation of H₂O
• Oxidation of active metal electrodes
• Oxidation of anions in the solution

The half-cell reaction with higher reduction potential occurs at the cathode and half-cell reaction with lower reduction potential occurs at the anode.

Interpretation Introduction

(c)

Interpretation:

The probable products when Pt electrodes are used in the electrolysis of ${\text{BaCl}}_{\text{2}}\left(l\right)$ should be predicted.

Concept introduction:

Electrolysis of molten salts,

• The cation is reduced at the cathode
• The anion is oxidized at the anode

Interpretation Introduction

(d)

Interpretation:

The probable products when Pt electrodes are used in the electrolysis of $\text{KOH}\left(aq\right)$ should be predicted.

Concept introduction:

Electrolysis of molten salts,

• The cation is reduced at the cathode
• The anion is oxidized at the anode