Predict the products of electrolysis in each of the following: A dilute solution of `H_2SO_4` with platinum electrodes.

Explanation

A dilute solution of `H_(2)SO_(4)` using platinum electrodes.
On passing current, both acid and water will ionise as follows :
`H_(2)SO_(4)(l)overset(aq)rarr2H^(+)(aq)+SO_(4)^(2-)(aq),H_(2)Ooverset((aq))rarrH^(+)(aq)+OH^(-)(aq)`
`H^(+)(aq)+e^(Theta)rarrH , H+HrarrH_(2)(g)`
Thus `H_(2)(g)` will be evolved at cathode.
At anode : `OH^(Theta)` ions will be released in prefrence to `SO_(4)^(2-)` ions because their discharge potential is less. They will be oxidised as follows
`HO^(Theta)(aq)rarrOH+e^(Theta), 40Hrarr2H_(2)O+O_(2)(g)`
Thus `O_(2)` will be evolved at anode. The solution will be acidic and will contain `H_(2)SO_(4)`