Cathode Reaction in Electrolysis of Molten NaCl

Steps:

• Identify cathode as site of reduction, where positive ions gain electrons.
• Note molten NaCl provides Na⁺ and Cl⁻ ions as the only species.
• Determine Na⁺ is reduced at cathode to form neutral Na metal.
• Match equation showing Na⁺ gaining one electron to produce Na.

Why C is correct:

• Reduction at cathode follows the half-reaction definition: cations accept electrons to form atoms, as in Na⁺ + e⁻ → Na.

Why the others are wrong:

• A: Shows oxidation (electron loss) for Cl⁻, which occurs at anode.
• B: Incorrectly depicts anode oxidation without proper electron placement on product side.
• D: Represents oxidation (electron removal) for Na⁺, opposite of cathode reduction.

Final answer: C