Electrolysis Of Molten Compounds

Electrolysis Of Molten Compounds

Process of breaking down compounds in molten or aqueous state into their constituent elements by passing electricity through them.

v  Anode (Positive electrode)

─       Negative ions or anions are attracted to anode.

─       Anion undergo discharge by releasing electrons to form neutral atoms.

v  Cathode (Negative electrode)

─       Positive ions or cations are attracted to cathode.

─       Cation  undergo discharge to form atoms.

Electrolysis Of Molten Lead (II) Bromide

v  Anode (Positive electrode)

─       Anions, Br ^- are attracted to the anode.

─       Bromide ions, Br^- discharge by releasing electron to form bromine gas, Br₂

Half equation :

2Br^-(l)      →       Br₂(g) + 2e^-

v  Cathode (negative electrodes)

─       Lead(II) ions, Pb²⁺ are attracted to the cathode.

─       Lead (II) ions, Pb²⁺ undergo discharge by accepting two electrons to form a lead atom/lead metal.

Half equation :

Pb²⁺ (I) + 2e^-       →         Pb (s)

Overall equation:

Pb²⁺ (I) + 2Br ^-  → Pb(s) + Br₂(g)