To determine which electrolyte can be used to obtain \( \text{H}_2\text{S}_2\text{O}_8 \) (peroxydisulfuric acid) by the process of electrolysis, we need to understand the conditions required for its formation:
1. Principle of Electrolysis: Electrolysis involves the decomposition of compounds using an electric current. The electrolyte's nature significantly affects the products formed.
2. Peroxydisulfuric Acid Formation: This compound is specifically formed when concentrated sulfuric acid is electrolyzed. The equation for the formation of \( \text{H}_2\text{S}_2\text{O}_8 \) is as follows:
2 \( \text{HSO}_4^- \) (aq) → \( \text{H}_2\text{S}_2\text{O}_8 \) (aq) + 2 \( e^- \)
3. Options Analysis:
Option | Suitability |
Dilute solution of sodium sulphate | Not suitable, lacks sufficient sulfate ions and concentration. |
Dilute solution of sulphuric acid | Not suitable due to low concentration. |
Concentrated solution of sulphuric acid | Suitable; provides high concentration of sulfate ions for forming \( \text{H}_2\text{S}_2\text{O}_8 \). |
Acidified dilute solution of sodium sulphate | Not suitable, lacks adequate concentration of \( \text{HSO}_4^- \) ions. |
The process's efficiency in forming \( \text{H}_2\text{S}_2\text{O}_8 \) increases with the concentration of \( \text{HSO}_4^- \) ions provided by concentrated sulfuric acid, which makes it the correct choice.