Electrolysis of Molten NaCl (Downs Process)

2NaCl → 2Na + Cl2

개요

The Downs process electrolyzes molten NaCl at about 600°C (lowered from 801°C by adding CaCl₂) to produce sodium metal at the cathode and chlorine gas at the anode. A cylindrical iron cathode surrounds a graphite anode, with an iron screen separating products. This is the primary industrial method for producing metallic sodium.

참여 물질

역할 물질 계수 상태
반응물 Sodium Chloride NaCl 2 (l)
생성물 Sodium Na 2 (l)

일상 속 예시

Sodium metal produced by this process is used to make sodium vapor street lights that give a characteristic yellow glow.

산업적 중요성

나트륨 금속 생산의 주요 산업 공정입니다. 생산된 나트륨은 타이타늄 제련, 유기합성, 열전달 매체로 활용되며, 부산물인 염소는 PVC 및 소독제 생산에 사용됩니다.

성질

유형
Electrochemical
가역 반응
아니오
에너지
흡열
ΔH
822.0 kJ/mol
촉매
CaCl₂ (melting point depressant)

관련 반응

Electrolysis of Water Electrolytic Production of Chlorate Electrorefining of Copper Alkaline Battery Discharge Anodizing of Aluminum Cathodic Protection (Zinc Sacrificial Anode) Chlor-Alkali Electrolysis Chrome Electroplating Nickel-Metal Hydride Battery Electrochemical CO₂ Reduction to CO

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the equation for Electrolysis of Molten NaCl (Downs Process)?
The balanced equation is: 2NaCl → 2Na + Cl₂.
What type of reaction is Electrolysis of Molten NaCl (Downs Process)?
Electrolysis of Molten NaCl (Downs Process) is a electrochemical reaction.
Is Electrolysis of Molten NaCl (Downs Process) exothermic or endothermic?
Electrolysis of Molten NaCl (Downs Process) is endothermic (absorbs energy). The enthalpy change (ΔH) is 822.0 kJ/mol.
What conditions are needed for Electrolysis of Molten NaCl (Downs Process)?
This reaction requires a catalyst (CaCl₂ (melting point depressant)).