What Is the Correct Equation for the Electrolysis of NaOH and Water?

Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the electrolysis of sodium hydroxide (NaOH) and water, specifically focusing on the correct chemical equations and the role of NaOH in the process. Participants explore the stoichiometry involved and the implications of NaOH as a spectator ion in the reaction.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related, Technical explanation, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents a proposed equation for the electrolysis of NaOH and water, questioning the correct stoichiometric representation.
  • Another participant asserts that NaOH acts as a spectator in the reaction, emphasizing that it does not participate in the chemical reaction but enhances conductivity.
  • Some participants discuss the relationship between the amount of gases produced during electrolysis and the mass of NaOH, referencing Faraday's law as a governing principle.
  • A participant expresses the need to find the mass of substances at the cathode and anode given a specific mass of NaOH, indicating a desire for further clarification on the calculations involved.
  • One response indicates that there is insufficient information to determine the mass of substances produced during electrolysis.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally disagree on the role of NaOH in the electrolysis process, with some emphasizing its non-reactive role while others seek to understand its implications for stoichiometry and gas production. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the correct equations and calculations.

Contextual Notes

Limitations include the lack of clarity on the stoichiometric relationships and the specific conditions under which the electrolysis is performed, as well as the dependence on definitions of terms like "spectator ion."

Who May Find This Useful

Students studying electrochemistry, particularly those interested in the electrolysis of solutions and the role of electrolytes in chemical reactions.

prishila
Messages
36
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement


Write the water electrolise of NaOH.

Homework Equations


NaOH+H2O->H2+O2+NaOH

The Attempt at a Solution


2NaOH+2H2o->2H2+O2+2NaOH
I thought to write 2H2O->2H2+O2
If I am given the mass of NaOH (which in one problem I am), then how am I supposed to find the mas of H2O for example?
Is it right to write this way
2NaOH+2H2o->2H2+O2+2NaOH
or
NaOH+2H2o->2H2+O2+NaOH?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
NaOH is just a spectator, it doesn't react. What it does it increases the solution conductivity.

Amount of gases produced doesn't depend on the amount of NaOH (at least not stoichiometrically), instead it is given by Faraday's law.
 
Borek said:
NaOH is just a spectator, it doesn't react. What it does it increases the solution conductivity.

Amount of gases produced doesn't depend on the amount of NaOH (at least not stoichiometrically), instead it is given by Faraday's law.
I am given the mass of NaOH 40g. I have to find the mass of substances added in cathode and anode. How can I find it?
 
You can't, there is not enough information.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • · Replies 19 ·
Replies
19
Views
7K
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
3K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
3K
  • · Replies 26 ·
Replies
26
Views
5K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
3K
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
3K
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
2K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
3K