Question

Which of the following is correct regarding the electrolysis of concentrated NaCl solution?

Options

• Hydrogen is evolved at the cathode.

• Hydrogen is evolved at the anode.

• Chlorine is evolved at the cathode.

• Both hydrogen and chlorine are evolved at the cathode.

Answer 1

Hydrogen is evolved at the cathode.

Explanation:

H⁺ ions have a lower discharge potential than Na⁺ ions, so hydrogen gas is liberated at the cathode. (At the anode, chlorine gas evolves).