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WAEC Chemistry 2025 Theory — Question 29

Question 29 of 70 from the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) Chemistry 2025 Theory paper, with the correct answer and a full explanation.

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2(e)(ii). Explain the effect of concentration on the anion that is preferentially discharged in the electrolysis of brine.

Model answer

Brine is a concentrated aqueous solution of sodium chloride (NaCl). The anions competing for discharge at the anode are Cl- and OH-. OH- is lower in the electrochemical series (more easily discharged based on position alone), but Cl- is preferentially discharged instead because of its much higher concentration in brine.

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