The electrolysis of molten compounds
2 marks · HardDuring the electrolysis of molten silver(I) chloride ( ), inert electrodes are used.
Write the half-equation for the reaction that occurs at the cathode. State whether reduction or oxidation is taking place at the cathode.
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Also accept: ; Reduction
Common mistakes: Incorrect charge on ion; Stating oxidation instead of reduction; Incorrect direction of electron flow
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Marking points
M1 · 1 mark · Writes the correct half-equation for the cathode:
B1 · 1 mark · States that reduction occurs at the cathode.
Worked solution
At the cathode, silver(I) ions gain electrons to form silver atoms:
This process is reduction because the silver ion gains electrons.