Electrolysis of Sodium Chloride (NaCl)

In the electrolysis of Sodium Chloride (NaCl), 

• Sodium Metal (Na) is produced at the cathode 
• Chlorine gas (Cl2) is produced at the anode.

At the Anode (Positive Electrode):

The anode attracts negatively charged ions (anions) from the concentrated Hydrochloric Acid.

• At the anode, Chloride  ions (Cl–) are oxidized.
• Each chloride ion loses one electron and forms chlorine gas (Cl2):

                      2 Cl– → Cl2 + 2 e–

Cathode (Negative Electrode):

The cathode attracts positively charged ions (cations) from the aqueous Sodium Chloride.

• At the cathode, sodium ions (Na⁺) are reduced.
• Each sodium ion gain electrons and forms Sodium Metal:

2 Na+ (aq) + 2e– → 2Na (l)

The overall reaction of the electrolysis of sodium chloride can be represented as follows: 

2 NaCl (aq) → 2Na (l) + Cl2 (g)

Observations:

• At the anode:

Chlorine gas (Cl2) is produced. It has a distinct yellow-green color and a characteristic smell.

• At the cathode:

Sodium metal (Na) is formed as a molten substance. However, in an aqueous solution, sodium hydroxide (NaOH) may also be produced due to the presence of water.

The electrolysis of sodium chloride is used in the production of chlorine gas and sodium metal.

Chlorine gas has various industrial applications, including the production of PVC, water disinfection, and bleach.

Sodium metal is highly reactive and is not typically obtained in pure form through electrolysis of aqueous sodium chloride due to the presence of water. It is often obtained through other methods.