Q9 / 160 · TS EAMCET 2003 · Chemistry

Which one of the following electrolytes is used in Down's process of extracting sodium metal?

  • Correct answer
    A
    $\mathrm{NaCl}+\mathrm{KCl}+\mathrm{KF}$
  • B
    $\mathrm{NaCl}$
  • C
    $\mathrm{NaOH}+\mathrm{KCl}+\mathrm{KF}$
  • D
    $\mathrm{NaCl}+\mathrm{NaOH}$

Solution

Sodium metal is manufactured by the electrolysis of fused sodium chloride mixed with $\mathrm{KCl}$ and $\mathrm{KF}$. On electrolysis At iron cathode. $\mathrm{Na}^{+}+e^{-} \longrightarrow \mathrm{Na}(s)$ (metallic sodium) At graphite anode $2 \mathrm{Cl}^{-} \longrightarrow \mathrm{Cl}_2(g)+2 e^{-}$ $\mathrm{NaCl}$ melts at $800^{\circ} \mathrm{C}$. It is difficult to attain and maintain its melting point. So, $\mathrm{KCl}$ and $\mathrm{KF}$ are mixed to lower the melting point of $\mathrm{NaCl}$ to about $600^{\circ} \mathrm{C}$. $\mathrm{KCl}$ and $\mathrm{KF}$ are themselves not electrolysed under the voltage conditions used for sodium.

Hence, the correct answer is option: 'A'.

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