Question

Given the balanced equation representing a reaction occurring in an electrolytic cell: `2NaCl(l) -> 2Na(l) + Cl_2(g)`, where is Na produced in the cell?

Answer 1

Well, sodium metal is produced at the cathode........

Explanation:

The reduction reaction is cathodic:

`Na^(+) + e^(-) rarr Na`, and hence it occurs at the cathode, the negative electrode.

And the anodic reaction is an oxidation reaction:

`Cl^(-) rarr 1/2Cl_2(g) + e^-`

And chlorine gas should be evolved at the anode.