During the electrolysis of fused KCl, the following processes occur at the cathode and anode:
At the cathode:
2) the reduction of K+ ion
4) the reduction of Cl- ion
Explanation:
- At the cathode, reduction takes place. Positively charged ions (cations) like K+ are attracted to the negatively charged cathode. K+ ions gain electrons (reduction) to form potassium atoms.
- Additionally, Cl- ions are also attracted to the cathode. They can also undergo reduction by gaining electrons to form chlorine gas (Cl2).
Therefore, during the electrolysis of fused KCl, both the reduction of K+ ions to form potassium and the reduction of Cl- ions to form chlorine gas occur at the cathode.
