After electrolysis of an aqueous sodium chloride solution, it was found that the solution is being n — Electrochemistry Chemistry Question
Question
After electrolysis of an aqueous sodium chloride solution, it was found that the solution is being neutralized by 60 ml N – HCl solution. During the same period of electrolysis, 3.18 g of copper was deposited in a copper voltameter in series. What is the percentage of the theoretical yield of sodium hydroxide obtained? (Cu = 63.6)
💡 Solution & Explanation
In the copper voltameter, equivalents of Cu deposited = $3.18 / (63.6 / 2) = 3.18 / 31.8 = 0.1$ eq. Thus, 0.1 F of charge passed through the series circuit. The theoretical yield of NaOH should also be 0.1 equivalents (0.1 moles). The actual yield of NaOH is given by its neutralization with HCl. Equivalents of HCl = $60\text{ mL} \times 1\text{ N} = 60\text{ meq} = 0.06$ eq. This means 0.06 eq of NaOH was actually produced. Percentage yield = $(0.06 / 0.1) \times 100 = 60\%$. Therefore, correct answer is B.