Question

Write the equations of the reactions which take place at the cathode and anode when acidified water is electrolyzed.

Answer 1

Reaction at Cathode :
H⁺ + e^- → H
H + H → H₂
^or 4H⁺ + 4e^- → 2H₂
Reaction at anode :
20H^- - 2e^- → H₂O + O
or 4OH^- - 4e^- → 4OH
4OH → 2H₂O + O₂