Question

Compose the cathode and anode processes of melt electrolysis of MgS, the total electrolysis equation

Answer 1

In the melt electrolysis of MgS, the cathode process is the reduction of Mg2+ ions to solid magnesium, while the anode process is the oxidation of S2- ions to sulfur gas.

Step-by-step explanation:

In the melt electrolysis of MgS, the cathode and anode processes can be determined by considering the reduction and oxidation reactions that occur. At the cathode, reduction takes place, and magnesium ions (Mg2+) receive electrons and are transformed into solid magnesium (Mg). The cathode is where reduction occurs. At the anode, oxidation takes place, and sulfur ions (S2-) lose electrons and are transformed into sulfur gas (S₂). The anode is where oxidation occurs. Therefore, the cathode process is the reduction of Mg2+ ions to solid magnesium, while the anode process is the oxidation of S2- ions to sulfur gas.

Answer 2

The electrolysis of MgS by melt electrolysis involves the use of a molten salt as the electrolyte. The cathode and anode processes and the overall electrolysis equation are as follows:

Cathode: Mg2+(l) + 2e- → Mg(l)

Anode: S2-(l) → S(g) + 2e-

Overall: MgS(l) → Mg(l) + S(g)

At the cathode, magnesium ions (Mg2+) are reduced to magnesium metal (Mg) by gaining two electrons (2e-) from the cathode. This process occurs due to the higher reduction potential of Mg2+ compared to S2-.

At the anode, sulfide ions (S2-) are oxidized to sulfur gas (S) and electrons (e-) by losing two electrons. This process occurs due to the higher oxidation potential of S2- compared to Mg2+.

The overall electrolysis equation shows that magnesium sulfide (MgS) is broken down into magnesium metal (Mg) and sulfur gas (S) by the application of an electric current.

It's worth noting that molten salt electrolysis is commonly used for the production of metals such as aluminum and magnesium, as it allows for the separation of the metal from its ore in a relatively efficient manner. However, the high temperatures required for melt electrolysis mean that it can be an energy-intensive process.