The electrolysis of some other solutions using inert electrodes
2 marks · EasyExplain why nitrate ions do not produce a gas at the anode during the electrolysis of aqueous sodium nitrate solution with inert electrodes.
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Common mistakes: Nitrate ions produce nitrogen at the anode.
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Marking points
M1 · 1 mark · Recognises that nitrate ions are not discharged at the anode.
A1 · 1 mark · Explains that instead hydroxide ions are discharged, producing oxygen at the anode.
Worked solution
Nitrate ions are too difficult to oxidise and are not discharged at the anode. Instead, hydroxide ions (from water) are discharged, producing oxygen gas.