Question

How is the electrolysis of $MgC{l_2}$ performed?

Answer 1

Hint: In the electrolysis process, the decomposition of ionic compounds into its element form takes place by passing the electric current. In this process oxidation reaction and reduction reaction takes place in the two electrodes which are anode and cathode. Magnesium chloride is the ionic compound.

Complete step by step answer:
The electrolysis is defined as the technique where the decomposition of ionic compounds into their elemental state takes place by the incorporation of the electric current through an electrolyte. The process of electrolysis is performed in an electrolytic cell which contains two electrodes. The two electrodes are connected to direct source. The two electrodes are cathode and anode. Cathode are negatively charged and anode are positively charged.
Magnesium chloride is an ionic compound. The formula is $MgC{l_2}$. First the compound is heated so that it changes into molten state before it will conduct electricity. During the electrolysis process, the molten ionic compound separates into elements.
In the whole electrolysis process, oxidation and reduction process takes place.
The reduction half reaction is shown below.
$M{g^{2 + }} + 2{e^ - } \to Mg$
Magnesium ions gain two electrons to form magnesium atoms.
The oxidation half reaction is shown below.
$2C{l^ - } \to C{l_2} + 2{e^ - }$
Chlorine ion oxidizes by losing electrons to form chlorine gas.
The magnesium metal gets deposited at the cathode and the chlorine gas gets deposited at the anode

Note: The electrolysis process can be performed only when the compound is an ionic compound or is present in a molten state. The compound in solid form cannot undergo electrolysis as in solid the ions are compact and cannot move freely.