What reaction takes place at the cathode during the electrolysis of molten sodium chloride? Write the half-reaction equation.

Answer 1

In molten NaCl, the ions are free to move and as an electric current as applied to the liquid Na metal & Cl₂ gas form around inert electrodes, such as carbon electrodes. The half-reactions are as shown below:

2 Na⁺_(l) + 2 e^- → 2 Na_(l) (at the cathode)

2 Cl^-_(l) → Cl_2(g) + 2 e^- (at the anode)

with the net reaction being:2 Na⁺_(l) + 2 Cl^-_(l) → 2 Na_(l) + Cl_2(g)