Irram A.

asked • 03/27/18

Explain the electrolysis of molten magnesium chloride. (6 marks)

I have a mock exam tomorrow and would really appreciate if someone could help with this question I am struggling with (to get full marks)

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J.R. S. answered • 03/27/18

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MgCl2 has to be heated until molten in order for it to conduct electricity. When molten you have Mg2+ and 2Cl- ions. Then electrolysis separates the elements. 
Mg2+ + 2e- =>Mg(s)
2Cl- =>Cl2(gas)
The Mg2+ is reduced at the cathode (-) and the Cl- is oxidized at the anode (+). 
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J.R. S.

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To answer the question you emailed me about what happens to the electrons:
During electrolysis, a current is passed through the molten MgCl2, and when this happens, the Mg2+ ions move to the negative electrode where they PICK UP OR GAIN ELECTRONS.  This is reduction.
The Cl- ions move to the positive electrode where they LOSE ELECTRONS.  This is oxidation.
I'm not sure what else you want to know.  This is a simple as I can make it.
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03/27/18

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