Question

Give the chlor alkai reaction . name the gases evolved at the cathod and anode and state one use of each of the gases.

Answer 1

Sodium hydroxide, NaOH, is also known as lye or caustic soda.

Sodium hydroxide is a commonly used base.

Electrolysis of concentrated sodium chloride solutions (brine) produces chlorine gas, hydrogen gas and aqueous sodium hydroxide.

2NaCl(aq) + 2H2O(l) → H2(g) + Cl2(g) + 2NaOH(aq)

Cl2(g) is produced at the anode (positive electrode).

H2(g) and NaOH(aq) are produced at the cathode (negative electrode).