Predict the products of electrolysis in each of the following :
An aqueous solution of `AgNO_(3)` with silver electrodes.

Explanation

Possible reactions at cathode :
`Ag^(+)(aq)+ e rarr Ag(s) " "` …..[1]
`2H_(2)O(l)+2e rarr H_(2)(g)+2OH^(-)(aq)" "` ….[2]
Since standard reduction potential of half - reaction (1) is greater than that of (2), the reaction (1) will occur at cathode as long as `Ag^(+)` ions are present in the cell.
Cathode reaction : `Ag^(+)(aq)+e rarr Ag(s)`
Possible reactions at anode :
`2H_(2)O(l)rarr O_(2)(g)+4H^(+)(aq)+4e " "` .....[3]
`Ag(s)rarr Ag^(+)(aq)+e " "` .....[4]
`NO_(3)^(-)` does not undergo oxidation as N exists in its highest oxidation state. The reaction (4) will occur as its standard reduction potential is lower than that of (3). Hence, Ag - atoms of Ag - anode undergo oxidation to form `Ag^(+)` ions. Anode reaction : `Ag(s)rarr Ag^(+)(aq)+e`