Electrolytic processes of industrial importance involve the use of electrolysis to drive chemical reactions that are essential for various applications. These processes include the extraction of metals from their ores, such as sodium from molten sodium chloride in Down's cell, which produces sodium metal and chlorine gas as byproducts. Additionally, electrolysis is utilized in the production of caustic soda, hydrogen, and chlorine from sodium chloride solutions. Other significant applications include the extraction of metals like magnesium, calcium, and aluminum, highlighting the critical role of electrolytic processes in modern industrial chemistry.
What is one method used for the extraction of sodium?
Sodium is extracted by the electrolysis of fused sodium chloride in a Down's cell, where molten sodium chloride is electrolyzed between an iron cathode and a graphite anode
What byproduct is obtained during the extraction of sodium?
Chlorine gas is obtained as a byproduct during the extraction of sodium from molten sodium chloride
What is the Hall-Heroult process used for?
The Hall-Heroult process is used for the extraction of aluminum from its ore, bauxite, using cryolite as a solvent
How is anodized aluminum prepared?
Anodized aluminum is prepared by making aluminum an anode in an electrolytic cell containing sulfuric acid or chromic acid, which coats it with a thin layer of aluminum oxide
What is the purpose of purifying copper using an electrolytic process?
The purification of copper involves using impure copper as the anode and pure copper as the cathode in a copper sulfate solution, allowing copper ions to migrate and deposit on the cathode, leaving impurities behind
What is the primary purpose of electrolysis in industrial processes?
a) To generate heat
b) To drive non-spontaneous chemical reactions
c) To produce electricity
d) To measure pH
Answer: b) To drive non-spontaneous chemical reactions
Which cell is used for the extraction of sodium?
a) Nelson's cell
b) Down's cell
c) Hall-Heroult cell
d) Daniell cell
Answer: b) Down's cell
What is produced as a byproduct during the electrolysis of molten sodium chloride?
a) Hydrogen
b) Oxygen
c) Chlorine
d) Nitrogen
Answer: c) Chlorine
In the Hall-Heroult process, which substance is used as a solvent for aluminum extraction?
a) Sodium chloride
b) Cryolite
c) Sulfuric acid
d) Water
Answer: b) Cryolite
What is the main application of anodizing aluminum?
a) To increase electrical conductivity
b) To enhance corrosion resistance
c) To improve thermal conductivity
d) To reduce weight
Answer: b) To enhance corrosion resistance