Question

What is a possible cathode reaction in the electrolysis of molten potassium iodide?

A. \(2I^- - 2e \rightarrow I_2\)
B. \(I_2 - 2e \rightarrow 2I^-\)
C. \(K^+ + e \rightarrow K\)
D. \(K - e \rightarrow K^+\)

Answer 1

In the electrolysis of molten potassium iodide, the cathode reaction involves reduction where potassium ions gain electrons to become potassium metal.

Step-by-step explanation:

A possible cathode reaction in the electrolysis of molten potassium iodide is C. K+ + e− → K.

In electrolytic cells, the anode is the electrode where oxidation occurs, and the cathode is where reduction occurs.

Molten potassium iodide consists of potassium cations (K+) and iodide anions (I−).

During electrolysis, the positive potassium ions will migrate to the cathode, where they gain electrons (are reduced) to form potassium metal.