Chapter 19, Problem 19.134SP

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The half-cell reaction at the cathode and anode in the electrolysis of the aqueous solution of ${\text{MgCl}}_{\text{2}}$ is to be predicted.

Concept introduction:

The substances that have a higher reduction will undergo reduction at the cathode while the substances that have a higher standard oxidation potential will undergo oxidation at the anode.

The electrolysis can be defined as the process in which the substance is decomposed into its component in the presence of the electric current.

In the electrolytic solution, if two ions are attracted to the electrode then the ion that has a lower discharge potential will discharge at that electrode.