What is the correct order of gases formed at the anode and cathode in the chlor-alkali process?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: Chlorine at anode and hydrogen at cathode
The chlor-alkali process is the electrolysis of concentrated aqueous sodium chloride, or brine. At the anode, chloride ions lose electrons and form chlorine gas: 2Cl⁻ → Cl₂ + 2e⁻. At the cathode, water gains electrons and produces hydrogen gas and hydroxide ions. Sodium hydroxide remains in the solution. Therefore, chlorine is formed at the anode and hydrogen at the cathode, making option A correct; the other choices reverse or misidentify the products.
Frequently asked questions
What is the correct answer to this question?
Chlorine at anode and hydrogen at cathode
Why is this the correct answer?
The chlor-alkali process is the electrolysis of concentrated aqueous sodium chloride, or brine. At the anode, chloride ions lose electrons and form chlorine gas: 2Cl⁻ → Cl₂ + 2e⁻. At the cathode, water gains electrons and produces hydrogen gas and hydroxide ions. Sodium hydroxide remains in the solution. Therefore, chlorine is formed at the anode and hydrogen at the cathode, making option A correct; the other choices reverse or misidentify the products.
Which subject and chapter does this question cover?
This is a Class 10 Science question. Chapter: Chemical Substances – Nature and Behaviour. Topic: Acids, Bases, and Salts.
