1. The following oxidation and reduction half-reactions are possible for the ele

Question

1. The following oxidation and reduction half-reactions are possible for the electrolysis of potassium iodide solution. The solution contains water molecules, potassium ions (K+), and iodide ions (I–).

2H2O(l) ->O2(g) + 4H+(aq) + 4e–

K+(aq) + e– -->K(s)

2H2O(l) + 2e– ->H2(g) + 2OH–(aq)

2I–(aq) -->I2(s) + 2e–

What product was formed at the anode in the electrolysis of potassium iodide solution? Explain, citing specific evidence from your observations.

What product was formed at the cathode in the electrolysis of potassium iodide solution? Explain based on your observations.

Write the balanced chemical equation for the overall redox reaction in the electrolysis of aqueous potassium iodide.

Explanation / Answer

at anode : oxidation

2I–(aq) -->I2(s) + 2e–

at cathode : reduction

2H2O(l) + 2e– ->H2(g) + 2OH–(aq)

overall reaction :

2I–(aq) --> I2(s) + 2e–
2H2O(l) + 2e– --> H2(g) + 2OH–(aq)
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2I–(aq) + 2H2O(l) ----> I2(s) + H2(g) + 2OH–(aq)
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