In the electrolysis of water, the volumes of gases collected at the cathode and anode are in the ratio 2:1. If the gas with the lower volume is oxygen, which gas has the higher volume?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: Hydrogen
The balanced equation for electrolysis of water is \(2H_2O \rightarrow 2H_2 + O_2\). It produces 2 moles of hydrogen for every 1 mole of oxygen. At the same temperature and pressure, gas volume is proportional to the number of moles, so hydrogen occupies twice the volume of oxygen. Carbon dioxide, nitrogen, and chlorine are not products of the electrolysis of water.
Frequently asked questions
What is the correct answer to this question?
Hydrogen
Why is this the correct answer?
The balanced equation for electrolysis of water is \(2H_2O \rightarrow 2H_2 + O_2\). It produces 2 moles of hydrogen for every 1 mole of oxygen. At the same temperature and pressure, gas volume is proportional to the number of moles, so hydrogen occupies twice the volume of oxygen. Carbon dioxide, nitrogen, and chlorine are not products of the electrolysis of water.
Which subject and chapter does this question cover?
This is a Class 10 Science question. Chapter: Chemical Substances – Nature and Behaviour. Topic: Chemical Reactions and Equations.
