I have decomposed $\ce{NaCl}$ solution (brine) with electrolysis and yield $\ce{NaOH}$ at cathode, at anode I got acidic while expected was $\ce{NaClO}$ (alkaline) if it is $\ce{HOCl + HCl}$. Where does sodium ion goes, and if it doesn't, then why?
-
$\begingroup$ The sodium ions go where the electric field drives them. How could they not to? $\endgroup$ – Ivan Neretin Aug 9 '20 at 8:20
-
$\begingroup$ so the sodium ion goes to sodium hydroxide solution and make hypochlorus acid at the anode $\endgroup$ – Ananiya Jemberu Aug 9 '20 at 8:23
-
$\begingroup$ Well, basically yes, that's about it. $\endgroup$ – Ivan Neretin Aug 9 '20 at 8:28
-
$\begingroup$ what if i put the anode and cathode in the same beaker and the same brine solution $\endgroup$ – Ananiya Jemberu Aug 9 '20 at 8:33
-
$\begingroup$ Then the separation will be smaller, and if you stir the solution, it won't develop at all. $\endgroup$ – Ivan Neretin Aug 9 '20 at 9:16