Question

N the electrolysis of molten BaI2, which product forms at the cathode?

a. Ba
b. I₂
c .Ba₂⁺
d. I ⁻

Answer 1

In the electrolysis of molten BaI2, metallic barium (Ba) forms at the cathode as Ba2+ ions are reduced by gaining electrons.

Step-by-step explanation:

In the electrolysis of molten BaI2 (barium iodide), the product that forms at the cathode is metallic barium (Ba). During electrolysis, the cations (positive ions) migrate to the negative electrode (cathode) where they gain electrons in a reduction reaction. In this case, Ba2+ ions gain two electrons to form Ba metal, and the overall reaction at the cathode is represented as Ba2+ + 2e- → Ba(l).

Here's the reduction reaction at the cathode:

• Ba2+ (molten) + 2e- → Ba(l)

Meanwhile, at the anode, iodide ions (I-) lose electrons to become iodine molecules (I2).