On the electrolysis of aqueous solution of Na2SO4 by using inert electrode, which of the following is deposited/released on the cathode electrode?
Correct answer: D. H2 gas is released
- A. Na is deposited
- B. O2 gas is released
- C. Neither Na nor H2 is released
- D. H2 gas is released
Explanation
During the electrolysis of an aqueous solution of Na2SO4 using inert electrodes, the cathode reaction involves the reduction of hydrogen ions (H+) to hydrogen gas (H2), rather than the reduction of sodium ions (Na+) to sodium metal. This is because the standard electrode potential for the reduction of hydrogen is more favorable than that for sodium, meaning hydrogen is more readily reduced. At the anode, water is oxidized to produce oxygen gas (O2), not sulfur dioxide as suggested in one of the incorrect options. Therefore, the correct answer is that hydrogen gas is released at the cathode.
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