In the electrolysis of aqueous sodium chloride solution which of the half-cell reaction will
occur at anode?
; 
Text Solution
Verified by ExpertsD
In case of electrolysis of aqueous NaCl oxidation reaction occurs at anode as follows
But due to lower 
value, water get oxidised in preference of 
. However, the actual reaction taking place in the concentrated solution of NaCl is and not , i.e. 
is produced and not 
.
This unexpected result is explained on the basis of the concept of 'overvoltage', i.e. water needs greater voltage for oxidation of 
(as it is kinetically slow process) than that needed for oxidation of 
ions to 
. Thus, the correct option is not .
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