Electrolysis Q

[sajib_mostofa]

Magnesium metal is produced by passing a current through molten ₂.

a) Write the equations for the reactions occuring at the anode and cathode.

I figured that the cathode reaction would be as Mg is being formed. But why is the anode reaction
?

[fady_22]

It's a molten solution, and there is no water present.

[3Xamz]

There's only Mg and Cl ions in the molten MgCl2.
I would presume if Mg+2 is being reduced, Cl- must be oxidized?
Hence that equation.

That's my two cents worth ><

[sajib_mostofa]

It's a molten solution, and there is no water present.

So whenever something is in molten form, water will never be present?

[jasoN-]

yes definitely. this is the key point in molten compounds.
Anything under water (as an oxidant) cannot be reduced unless it is in molten form (ie. pure liquid)

[fady_22]

It's a molten solution, and there is no water present.

So whenever something is in molten form, water will never be present?

Yes. Molten means that the MgCl2 is heated to the point of melting (in liquid form). So there is no water.

[sajib_mostofa]

Cheers for that guys

[3Xamz]

Yup, you should know that because its fundamental to the production of some everyday chemical that is more than likely to assessed in the upcoming exam. Good luck!

[sajib_mostofa]

Yup, you should know that because its fundamental to the production of some everyday chemical that is more than likely to assessed in the upcoming exam. Good luck!

Haha cheers man. Good luck to you too.