Question

Electrolysis is a redox process. Explain.

How is electrolysis a redox process?

Answer 1

Electrolysis is a redox process. The reaction at the cathode involves the reduction of cations as they gain electrons. In contrast, the reaction at the anode involves the oxidation of anions as they lose electrons to become neutral.

Example: Dissociation of sodium chloride during electrolysis.
\[\ce{NaCl <=> Na + Cl}\]

At Cathode: \[\ce{Na+ + e- -> Na}\] (Reduction)

At Anode: \[\ce{Cl- - e- -> Cl}\] (Oxidation)

\[\ce{Cl + Cl -> Cl2}\]

Overall reaction: \[\ce{2NaCl -> 2Na + Cl2}\]