What would be the product of electrolysis if molten $\mathrm{ICl}_3$ is electrolysed?
A$\mathrm{I}_2$ is produced at cathode and $\mathrm{Cl}_2$ is produced at anode
B$\mathrm{Cl}_2$ is produced at cathode and $\mathrm{I}_2$ is produced at anode
CBoth $\mathrm{I}_2$ and $\mathrm{Cl}_2$ are liberated at both electrodes
D$\mathrm{ICl}_2$ is produced at cathode and $\mathrm{ICl}_4$ is produced at anode
Answer & Solution
Correct answer: A. $\mathrm{I}_2$ is produced at cathode and $\mathrm{Cl}_2$ is produced at anode
In molten $\mathrm{ICl}_3$, the species can be viewed as $\mathrm{I}^{3+}$ and $\mathrm{Cl}^-$. During electrolysis, cations go to the cathode and anions go to the anode.
At the cathode, reduction occurs:
$$\mathrm{I}^{3+} + 3e^- \rightarrow \mathrm{I}$$
Elemental iodine is obtained as $\mathrm{I}_2$.
At the anode, oxidation occurs:
$$2\mathrm{Cl}^- \rightarrow \mathrm{Cl}_2 + 2e^-$$
So the products are iodine at the cathode and chlorine at the anode. Comparing with the given options, this matches option $\mathrm{A}$.
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