Answer to Question #140644 in Physics for Sam

Question

Explain how the diaphragm cell is used to produce sodium hydroxide, chlorine
and hydrogen.

Answer 1

In diaphragm cell process, we have two chambers separated by a diaphragm. Brine is near the anode and flows to cathode. Chloride ions at the anode produce chlorine, at the cathode, water turns into caustic soda (sodium hydroxide) and hydrogen. The diaphragm does not allow the reaction between sodium hydroxide and chlorine to start.