In molten electrolysis, which statement about cation movement is correct?

In molten electrolysis, which statement about cation movement is correct?

• A. Cations Flow Toward The Cathode To Get Reduced
• B. Cations Flow Toward The Anode To Get Reduced
• C. Cations Remain In Solution
• D. Anions Flow Toward The Cathode

Answer: (A)

In molten electrolysis, ions move under the influence of the electric field: cations (positive ions) are attracted to the negatively charged cathode, where reduction occurs. At the cathode, these cations gain electrons to become neutral atoms or molecules. This is why the correct statement is that cations flow toward the cathode to get reduced. Anions, on the other hand, move toward the anode to be oxidized. Because the electrolyte is molten, there’s no solvent to complicate things, so ion movement is driven purely by charge and the electrode reactions. For example, in molten NaCl, Na+ ions migrate to the cathode to form Na metal, while Cl− ions migrate to the anode to form Cl2 gas.

In molten electrolysis, ions move under the influence of the electric field: cations (positive ions) are attracted to the negatively charged cathode, where reduction occurs. At the cathode, these cations gain electrons to become neutral atoms or molecules. This is why the correct statement is that cations flow toward the cathode to get reduced. Anions, on the other hand, move toward the anode to be oxidized. Because the electrolyte is molten, there’s no solvent to complicate things, so ion movement is driven purely by charge and the electrode reactions. For example, in molten NaCl, Na+ ions migrate to the cathode to form Na metal, while Cl− ions migrate to the anode to form Cl2 gas.