Complete the sentence by putting a cross (X) in the box next to your answer - Edexcel - GCSE Chemistry - Question 5 - 2012 - Paper 1

Electrolysis is a chemical process that uses an electric current to drive a non-spontaneous reaction. In the case of chlorine production, an electric current is passed through a solution, leading to the decomposition of compounds. During electrolysis, positive ions migrate to the cathode (negative electrode) and gain electrons, while negative ions move to the anode (positive electrode) and lose electrons, resulting in the formation of elemental chlorine.

The balanced equation for the reaction of chlorine gas with sodium hydroxide is:

The presence of sulfur in fossil fuels can lead to environmental damage primarily through the formation of acid rain. When sulfur is burned, it produces sulfur dioxide (SO₂), which escapes into the atmosphere. This gas can dissolve in rainwater, forming sulfurous or sulfuric acid, leading to acid rain. Acid rain can cause significant harm, such as:

• Acidification of lakes, which can kill fish and disrupt aquatic ecosystems.
• Damage to forests, affecting tree health and growth.
• Erosion of buildings and monuments, particularly those made of limestone or other calcareous materials.

To reduce the damage caused by sulfur, several strategies can be employed:

• Using calcium carbonate (limestone) to neutralize acid in lakes.
• Implementing scrubbers in power plants to remove sulfur dioxide from exhaust gases before they enter the atmosphere.
• Transitioning to cleaner energy sources that do not contain sulfur.