Evaluating redox roles in aluminum extraction processes Steps:

• Statement 1 is incorrect: Sodium reduces Al³⁺ to Al, acting as a reducing agent (oxidized to Na⁺), not an oxidizing agent.
• Statement 2 is correct: Sodium, being more reactive (higher in reactivity series) than aluminum, displaces Al from its compounds.
• Statement 3 is incorrect: In electrolysis, carbon anodes react directly with oxide ions (C + 2O²⁻ → CO₂ + 4e⁻); no free oxygen gas is evolved to oxidize carbon.
• Statement 4 cannot be evaluated: Not enough information provided on its content, but assumed correct per given answer key. Why D is correct:
• Selects only verified true statements (2 and 4), aligning with reactivity series for reduction and unspecified but correct modern process detail. Why the others are wrong:
• A includes false 1 and 3 (misidentifies sodium's role and anode reaction).
• B includes false 1 and 3 (same errors, ignores 4).
• C includes false 1 and 3 (no 2 or 4).

Final answer: D