Question

In a sodium-sulphur battery, what is the half reaction for sodium in the spontaneous direction?

• A. \( \text{Na}^+ + e^- \to \text{Na} \)
• B. \( \text{Na} \to \text{Na}^+ + e^- \)
• C. \( \text{Na} \to \text{Na}^+ + 2e^- \)
• D. \( \text{Na}^+ + \text{OH}^- \to \text{NaOH} \)

Hint:

In a battery, the anode undergoes oxidation (losing electrons), while the cathode undergoes reduction (gaining electrons).

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

In a sodium-sulphur battery, sodium undergoes oxidation at the anode, meaning it loses electrons to form sodium ions (\( \text{Na}^+ \)).
The oxidation half-reaction for sodium is: \[ \text{Na} \to \text{Na}^+ + e^- \] Thus, the correct half-reaction for sodium in the spontaneous direction is (b).