Final Answer:
A chemical equation of the result of an electrolytic cell which used the following: Salt water as electrolyte, Graphite as anode and cathode, A 9V battery, Insulated copper wire is C. 2NaCl + 2H₂O -> 2NaOH + H₂
Step-by-step explanation:
In the given electrolytic cell setup, saltwater (NaCl dissolved in water) serves as the electrolyte, and graphite functions as both the anode and cathode. The application of a 9V battery with insulated copper wire completes the circuit. The correct chemical equation for the electrolysis of saltwater is represented by option C: 2NaCl + 2H₂O -> 2NaOH + H₂. This equation illustrates the decomposition of water into hydrogen gas (H₂) at the cathode and the production of sodium hydroxide (NaOH) at the anode.
At the cathode, water undergoes reduction, forming hydrogen gas (H₂) and hydroxide ions (OH⁻): 2H₂O + 2e⁻ -> H₂ + 2OH⁻. Simultaneously, at the anode, chloride ions (Cl⁻) are oxidized, leading to the formation of chlorine gas (Cl₂) and releasing electrons: 2Cl⁻ -> Cl₂ + 2e⁻. The overall cell reaction combines these processes, resulting in the balanced equation: 2NaCl + 2H₂O -> 2NaOH + H₂ + Cl₂.
This electrolytic cell demonstrates the fundamental principles of electrochemistry, where electrical energy from the battery drives non-spontaneous redox reactions. The production of sodium hydroxide and chlorine gas has industrial applications, making electrolysis a valuable process in various chemical and manufacturing processes. The correct equation, option C, accurately represents the products formed during this electrolytic cell's operation.