Chapter 18, Problem 18.78QP

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The reason why fluorine gas cannot be prepared by the electrolysis of aqueous$\text{NaF}$but chlorine gas can be prepared by the electrolysis aqueous$\text{NaCl}$has to be explained.

Concept Introduction:

Electrolysis is the process in which the electric current is used for the initiation of a non-spontaneous reaction. The process is widely used for the separation of elements from a mixture or ore.  The process of electrolysis is carried out in an electrolytic cell.  In electrolytic cell electrical energy converted into  chemical energy.

A non-spontaneous chemical reaction is initiated by giving electrical energy to the cell. It has two electrodes, anode and cathode.  Anode is having positive charge and at anode oxidation is taking place.  Cathode is having negative charge and at cathode reduction takes place.  The two electrodes are dipped in the same electrolyte.

Standard reduction potentialis the measure of the tendency of a species to undergo reduction.  It is measured in terms of volts.  The substance which is having high positive value will easily undergo reduction.  In electrochemical series, the elements are arranged in the decreasing order of reduction potential.