Question

The electrolysis of molten calcium chloride produces calcium and chlorine. Write the
half- reaction that takes place at the anode and the half-reaction that takes place at
the cathode. Also, write the overall cell reaction for this process.
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Answer 1

Given info : The electrolysis of molten calcium chloride produces calcium and chlorine.

To find : (1) half reaction that takes place at the anode.

(2) half reaction that takes place at the cathode.

(3) overall cell reaction for this process.

Solution : due to electrolysis of calcium chloride, first this compound converts into ions Ca²⁺ and Br ¯

Half reaction at the cathode :

Ca²⁺ (aq) + 2e¯ ⇔Ca (s)

Half reaction at the anode :

2Cl¯ (aq) - 2e¯⇔ Cl₂(g)

Overall reaction for this process :

CaCl₂(l)⇒Ca(s)+ Cl₂(g)