When NaCl dissolves in water, it dissociates into its constituent ions; of which are attracted to the polar moments of the water molecule. We know this because the solution conducts electrical currents. If a strong anode and a strong cathode were placed into the solution, would the ions (although partly attracted to the water itself) trend to move to the respectve anode, cathode?
Would the Na+ move to area of the solution with anegative charge, and the Cl- move to the opposite end of the solution? If this can be done, could one evaporate the water and be left with Na metal, and Cl2 gas?
or is the thought process by this totally wack. any help would be appreciated.
2007-12-03 04:25:32 · 2 answers · asked by Anonymous in Science & Mathematics ➔ Chemistry
When you do this (in water) you get sodium hydroxide and chlorine. If you do the same thing as a molten salt you will get sodium metal and chlorine.
2007-12-03 04:38:44 · answer #1 · answered by Flying Dragon 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
The electrolysis will also separate the water into hydrogen and oxygen. As unstable as Sodium is, it will most likely attach itself the the electrode as an oxide. Pure sodium will catch fire when exposed to water and corrodes quickly if exposed to air. The Chlorine may bubble up through the water, but forms Hydrochloric acid when it comes in contact with the water.
2007-12-03 04:36:57 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋