Question

If the compound formed between X [a metal with a valency of 2] and Y [ a nonmetal with a valency of 3] is melted and an electric current is passed through the molten compound, the element X will be obtained at the _________ and Y at the ___________ of the electrolyte cell.

• A. cathode
• B. anode

Answer 1

• Here, metal X will undergo oxidation as it loses 2 electrons as shown below :
• At cathode :
• $3{\mathrm{X}}^{2+}+6{\mathrm{e}}^{-}\to 3\mathrm{X}$
• Hence, a positively charged ion at cathode (negative electrode).
• Whereas,
• At anode :
• $2{\mathrm{Y}}^{3-}-6{\mathrm{e}}^{-}\to 2\mathrm{Y}$
• Hence, negatively charged ion at anode (positive electrode).
• So, X will be obtained at cathode and Y will be obtained at anode.