Which of the following elements is extracted by electrolysis reduction?

The correct answer is Na.

Key Points

• Sodium (Na) is extracted by electrolysis of molten sodium chloride (NaCl).
• The process is known as the Downs process, where molten sodium chloride is electrolyzed.
• During electrolysis, sodium ions are reduced at the cathode to form sodium metal.
• Sodium is highly reactive and cannot be extracted by simple reduction methods, necessitating the use of electrolysis.
• Electrolysis is crucial for extracting highly reactive metals like sodium from their compounds.

Additional Information

• Electrolysis Process
  • Electrolysis involves passing an electric current through a molten or aqueous solution to cause a chemical change.
  • It is widely used for extracting metals from their ores and purifying them.
  • The process is performed in an electrolytic cell, which consists of two electrodes: an anode and a cathode.
  • During electrolysis, cations move towards the cathode to gain electrons (reduction), and anions move towards the anode to lose electrons (oxidation).
• Downs Process
  • This process is specifically used for the extraction of sodium metal from molten sodium chloride.
  • It involves the use of a carbon anode and an iron cathode in a molten sodium chloride bath.
  • Sodium is collected at the cathode, while chlorine gas is produced at the anode.
  • Calcium chloride is often added to lower the melting point of sodium chloride in this process.
• Reactivity Series
  • The reactivity series is a list of elements ordered by their reactivity.
  • Sodium is placed high in the reactivity series, indicating its high reactivity.
  • Highly reactive metals like sodium cannot be extracted by simple chemical reduction methods.
  • Electrolysis is necessary for extracting these metals from their compounds.
• Applications of Sodium
  • Sodium is used in various industrial processes, including the manufacture of sodium compounds and in the reduction of metals.
  • It is also used in street lighting and as a heat exchanger in some nuclear reactors.
  • Sodium compounds, such as sodium chloride and sodium hydroxide, have numerous applications in industries and households.