Question

Write the reaction occurring at the anode during electrolysis of acidified water.

Answer 1

Both \[\ce{SO^{2-}4}\] and OH⁻ ions migrate to the anode. OH⁻ being lower in the electrochemical series is discharged preferentially by losing electrons to form neutral OH, which then combine to form water and oxygen gas.

\[\ce{OH- - e- -> OH}\]

\[\ce{4OH -> 2H2O + O2}\]