The pBlock Elements - Result Question 10
####11. Which of the following elements is extracted commercially by the electrolysis of an aqueous solution of its compound?
[1993]
(a) $Cl$
(b) $Br$
(c) $Al$
(d) $Na$
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Solution:
- (a) On a commercial scale, chlorine is prepared by electrolysis of an aqueous solution of sodium chloride (brine solution). $Cl_2$ is evolved at the anode.
(b) $Br_2$ is prepared by passing $Cl_2$ gas through sea water containing $NaBr$, $kBr$ etc.
(c) $Al$ is extracted by electrolysis of fused mixture of alumina, cryolite and fluorspar.
Products of electrolysis depend on the concentration of electrolyte, overvoltage factor and the electrodes used. Also, the commercial viability is an important factor.
