Question

Which one of the following is not a product in the electrolysis of aqueous NaCl ?

• A. NaOH
• B. O₂
• C. Cl₂
• D. H₂

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

To solve this question, we need to identify the product that is not formed during the electrolysis of aqueous NaCl.

1. Electrolysis of Aqueous NaCl:
During the electrolysis of aqueous sodium chloride (NaCl), the following reactions occur:

- At the anode (positive electrode), chloride ions (Cl^-) are oxidized to form chlorine gas (Cl₂):
\[ 2Cl^- \rightarrow Cl_2 + 2e^- \]

- At the cathode (negative electrode), hydrogen ions (H⁺) from water are reduced to form hydrogen gas (H₂):
\[ 2H_2O + 2e^- \rightarrow H_2 + 2OH^- \]

- Sodium hydroxide (NaOH) is formed as a result of the reaction at the cathode (with hydroxide ions combining with sodium ions in solution).

2. Identifying the Incorrect Product:
The products of electrolysis of aqueous NaCl are:
- Sodium hydroxide (NaOH)
- Chlorine gas (Cl₂)
- Hydrogen gas (H₂)
But oxygen (O₂) is not produced in this reaction as a primary product in aqueous NaCl electrolysis.

Final Answer:
Option (B) O₂ is not a product of the electrolysis of aqueous NaCl.