Question

Choose the correct option regarding chlor-alkali reaction:

• A. Brine solution decomposes on the application of electricity.
• B. $C{l}_2$ is given off at the cathode.
• C. $H_2$ is given off at the anode.
• D. All of the above.

Answer 1

The correct option is A Brine solution decomposes on the application of electricity.

The reaction for Chloralkali process is given as :
$2NaCl+2H_{2}O⟶2NaOH+C{l}_2+H_2$

The reaction occurring at Anode is given as :
$C{l}^{-}\left(aq\right)⟶\frac{1}{2}C{l}_2+e^{-}$

while, the reaction taking place at cathode is given as :
$N{a}^{+}\left(aq\right)+e^{-}⟶Na/HgNa/Hg+H_{2}O⟶NaOH+\frac{1}{2}{H}_2$

So, chlor-alkali reaction is a technology used to produce chlorine and sodium hydroxide (caustic soda) by the decomposition of brine solution by application of electricity.