A diaphragm cell is an electrolytic cell used in the production of chemicals, such as chlorine and sodium hydroxide, through electrolysis of brine (saltwater). It features a semi-permeable membrane or diaphragm that separates the anode and cathode compartments, allowing selective ion transport while preventing the mixing of products. This design enhances efficiency by minimizing the recombination of produced gases and maintaining the purity of the generated chemicals. Diaphragm cells are commonly used in the chlor-alkali process, where sodium chloride is electrolyzed.
In an electrolytic cell
An electrolytic cell
An electrolytic cell requires an external power source to drive the non-spontaneous redox reactions, while a voltaic cell generates its own electrical energy from spontaneous reactions. This external power source is essential for the electrolytic cell to function, as it facilitates the movement of electrons and ions necessary for the electrolysis process. In contrast, a voltaic cell operates independently without needing an external energy input.
An electrolytic cell requires an external power source to drive the non-spontaneous chemical reactions, while a voltaic cell generates electrical energy from spontaneous reactions. This external power supply is necessary for the electrolytic process, as it forces the flow of electrons and facilitates the electrolysis of the electrolyte. In contrast, a voltaic cell relies on the chemical energy produced by the reactions occurring within the cell itself to generate electricity.
A galvanic cell can become an electrolytic cell by applying an external voltage greater than the cell's electromotive force (EMF). This reverse process forces the spontaneous redox reaction to go in the opposite direction, causing the cell to consume electrical energy to drive a non-spontaneous reaction. Essentially, the galvanic cell, which generates electricity from chemical reactions, can be converted into an electrolytic cell that requires electricity to induce chemical changes. This transformation is commonly seen in processes like electrolysis.
In an electrolytic cell
Reduction occurs at the cathode in an electrolytic cell.
Diagram of electrolytic cell
In an electrolytic cell, the anode is positive.
Mercury cell process: Electrolysis of brine (sodium chloride solution) using a mercury cathode. Membrane cell process: Electrolysis of brine through a membrane that selectively allows sodium ions to pass while blocking other ions. Diaphragm cell process: Electrolysis of brine separated by a porous diaphragm to prevent mixing of products and byproducts.
The electrode where reduction occurs.
In an electrolytic cell, the anode is designated as positive.
An electrolytic cell
An electrolytic cell requires an external power source to drive the non-spontaneous redox reactions, while a voltaic cell generates its own electrical energy from spontaneous reactions. This external power source is essential for the electrolytic cell to function, as it facilitates the movement of electrons and ions necessary for the electrolysis process. In contrast, a voltaic cell operates independently without needing an external energy input.
Oxidation occurs at the anode of an electrolytic cell.
A galvanic cell can become an electrolytic cell by applying an external voltage greater than the cell's electromotive force (EMF). This reverse process forces the spontaneous redox reaction to go in the opposite direction, causing the cell to consume electrical energy to drive a non-spontaneous reaction. Essentially, the galvanic cell, which generates electricity from chemical reactions, can be converted into an electrolytic cell that requires electricity to induce chemical changes. This transformation is commonly seen in processes like electrolysis.
Chlorine itslf is not mined. The materials used to produce chlorine (NaCl) is mined. Chlorine is produced by electrolytic reaction of a chloride solution (e.g. NaCl) in a process involving a diaphragm cell or a mercury cell. The mercury cell process has been largely discontinued because of its associated loss of mercury to the environment.