In the electrolysis of aqueous sodium sulfate at electrodes of platinum, predict the products of the cell reaction.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In the electrolysis of aqueous sodium sulfate, the cations (Na+) and anions (SO4 2-) will migrate towards the cathode and anode respectively. At the cathode, water will be reduced to form hydrogen gas and hydroxide ions. 2H2O + 2e- -> H2 + 2OH-. At the anode, sulfate ions will be oxidized to form oxygen gas and hydrogen ions. SO4 2- -> O2 + 2H+ + 2e-. Therefore, the products of the cell reaction are hydrogen gas and oxygen gas.

In the Electrolysis of Aqueous Sodium Sulfate at Electrodes of Platinum