Electrolysis+of+Molten+Electrolytes

Electrolysis of Molten Electrolytes

 * A **simple binary** ionic compound contains only two elements - a **metal** and a **non metal**.
 * The metallic ions (cations) will be discharged at the cathode
 * The metal will be the cathode product.
 * The non- metallic ions (anions) will be discharged at the anode.
 * The non-metal will be the anode product


 * Example:** electrolysis of molten lead (II) bromide


 * 1) **Electrolyte:** Lead (II) bromide,PbBr2,
 * 2) **Electrodes:** Carbon anode, Carbon cathode
 * 3) **Ions in the electrolyte:** Lead (II) ions,Pb2+, Bromide ions, Br-,
 * 4) **Electrode reactions:**
 * At the anode (+):
 * 2Br-(l) → Br2 (g) +2e-
 * Reddish-brown bromine gas is lliberated.
 * at the cathode (-)
 * Pb2+(l) + 2e- → Pb (l) reduction)
 * Shiny globules of lead metal are deposited.