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During the electrolysis of aqueous KNO3, H2 is produced at cathode instead of potassium due to:

Correct answer: C. Reduction potential of potassium is less than hydrogen

  • A. Reduction potential of "K" is greater than hydrogen
  • B. Hydrogen is more reactive than potassium
  • C. Reduction potential of potassium is less than hydrogen
  • D. All of the above are possible reassons

Explanation

Reduction potential of potassium is less than hydrogen. H+ will be reduced instead of K+ at cathode and hydrogen gas is produced.K+ + le-1→ K E°=-2.92V2H+1 +2e-1→ H2 E°=0.00V

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Electrochemistry describes electron transfer through oxidation and reduction, identifies oxidizing and reducing agents, and applies oxidation numbers to balance redox equations. It also covers electrode potential and the standard hydrogen electrode, which provides the reference for comparing the reduction tendencies of other electrodes.

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