Which one of the following statements is correct for electrolysis of brine solution?

Strategy: Identify the reduction half-reaction at the cathode during the electrolysis of aqueous $\ce{NaCl}$ (brine). Water is more easily redu\ced than $\ce{Na^+}$.

Step 1: Analyze cathode reaction Water undergoes reduction because its reduction potential is higher than that of sodium ions: $\ce{2H2O + 2e^- \rightarrow H2(g) + 2OH^-(aq)}$ This results in the formation of Hydrogen gas and Hydroxide ions at the electrode surfa\ce.

Step 2: Verify options

• $\ce{Cl2}$ is formed at the anode.
• $\ce{H2}$ is formed at the cathode.
• $\ce{OH^-}$ ions are explicitly formed in the cathode compartment.

$\boxed{\text{Answer: (d) } \ce{OH^-} \text{ is formed at cathode}}$