Question

Give a balanced equation for the following name reaction: 

Kolbe’s electrolytic reaction.

Answer 1

Kolbe’s electrolytic reaction: In this reaction, the aqueous solution of the sodium salt of the carboxylic acid is electrolyzed to obtain alkane, alkene or alkyne.

e.g., Ethane is framed sodium acetate.

\[\ce{2CH3COONa -> 2CH3COO- + 2Na-}\]

\[\ce{2H2O -> 2OH- + 2H+}\]

At anode:  `\[\ce{2CH3COO- - 2e- -> 2CH3COO ->[-CO2]\underset{\text{Ethane}}{CH3-CH3}}\]

At cathode: \[\ce{2H2O + 2e- -> 2OH- + H2}\]