MHT CET Chemistry Question (2026) — Solution

Step-by-step solution

In the electrolysis of aqueous NaCl , the ions present in the solution are Na ^ + , Cl ^ - , H ^ + , and OH ^ - . At the cathode, reduction occurs. The competing reactions are: Na ^ + + e^ - Na _ (s) (E^ = -2.71 V ) 2 H _ 2 O _ (l) + 2e^ - H _ 2(g) + 2 OH ^ - _ (aq) (E^ = -0.83 V ) Since the standard reduction potential of water is greater than that of sodium ions, water is preferentially reduced at the cathode. Thus, hydrogen gas ( H _ 2(g) ) is liberated at the cathode. Answer: H _ 2(g)