The overall chemical reaction for the electrolytic decomposition of water is 2H₂O → O₂(g)+ 2H₂(g) What is the reduction half-reaction?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The reduction half-reaction involves the gain of electrons. In this electrolytic decomposition of water, the reduction half-reaction is the reduction of water molecules (2H₂O(l) + 2e⁻ → H₂(g) + 2OH⁻(aq)). This equation can be re-written as 2H₂O(l) + 2e⁻ → H₂(g) + 2OH⁻(aq) + 2e⁻, which matches the reduction half-reaction presented in choice C.

The Overall Chemical Reaction for the Electrolytic Decomposition of Water