Answer to Question #171318 in General Chemistry for mike

Question

Identity if the following elements could be produced by the electrolysis of an aqueous solution of the salt:

a) nickel-metal from nickel chloride:

b) magnesium metal from magnesium nitrate

Answer 1

a) Yes electrolysis of Nickel chloride can produce Nickel metal.

b) No, Since the magnesium metal has displaced the magnesium ions (magnesium in solution) from the solution, this is a displacement reaction (redox). Zinc, copper and lead do not react with magnesium nitrate because magnesium is higher on the activity series, so is more reactive than the other metals.