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JAMB Chemistry 2006 Question 47

Question 47

Electrolysis

In the electrolysis of CuSO4(aq) using platinum electrodes, the reaction at the anode is

  1. A.4H+ + 4e− → 2H2
  2. B.4OH− − 4e− → 2H2O + O2
  3. C.2OH− − 2e− → 2OH
  4. D.2OH− + 2OH− → 2H2O + O2
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: B (4OH− − 4e− → 2H2O + O2)

Explanation

With inert electrodes, OH− ions are discharged in preference to SO42− at the anode, losing electrons to form water and oxygen gas.