What are the products of the overall reaction in the elec-trolysis of an aqueous solution of sodium hydroxide? (Refer to Table 19.1 for standard reduction potentials.)(a) Na(s) and O2(g)(b) H2(g) and O2(g)(c) Na(s) and H2(g) (d) Na(s) and H2O2(aq)

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Identify the components present in the aqueous solution of sodium hydroxide (NaOH), which are Na^+, OH^-, and H2O.

Consider the possible half-reactions at the anode (oxidation) and cathode (reduction) using standard reduction potentials.

At the cathode, reduction can occur. The possible reduction reactions are Na^+ + e^- -> Na(s) and 2H2O + 2e^- -> H2(g) + 2OH^-. Compare their standard reduction potentials to determine which is more favorable.

At the anode, oxidation can occur. The possible oxidation reactions are 4OH^- -> O2(g) + 2H2O + 4e^- and 2H2O -> O2(g) + 4H^+ + 4e^-. Compare their standard oxidation potentials to determine which is more favorable.

Combine the favorable half-reactions from the cathode and anode to determine the overall reaction and identify the products.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Electrolysis

Electrolysis is a chemical process that uses electrical energy to drive a non-spontaneous reaction. In an electrolytic cell, an electric current is passed through an electrolyte, causing the decomposition of the compound. In the case of sodium hydroxide (NaOH), the electrolysis leads to the production of hydrogen gas at the cathode and oxygen gas at the anode.

Standard Reduction Potentials

Standard reduction potentials are a measure of the tendency of a chemical species to gain electrons and be reduced. These values, typically found in tables, allow chemists to predict the direction of redox reactions. In the context of electrolysis, comparing the standard reduction potentials of the relevant half-reactions helps determine which species will be reduced and oxidized during the process.

Half-Reactions in Electrolysis

In electrolysis, the overall reaction can be broken down into two half-reactions: one for oxidation and one for reduction. For an aqueous solution of sodium hydroxide, the reduction half-reaction typically involves the formation of hydrogen gas, while the oxidation half-reaction involves the production of oxygen gas. Understanding these half-reactions is crucial for identifying the products of the electrolysis process.