A dilute aqueous solution of `Na_(2)SO_(4)` is electrolyzed using platinum electrodes. The products at the anode and cathode are :

Options

A. `O_(2),H_(2)`
B. `SO_(2),Na`
C. `O_(2),Na`
D. `S_(2)O_(8)^(2-),H_(2)`

Answer

A

Explanation

`H_(2)O` is more readily reduced than `Na^(+)`. It is also readily oxidized than `SO_(4)^(2-)`. Hence, the electrode reactions are:
At cathode:`2H_(2)O+2e^(-)toH_(2)+2OH^(-)`
At anode: `2H_(2)toO_(2)+4H^(+)+4e^(-)`