IN CASTNERS PROCESS A HOLLOW Ni CYLINDER IS USED AS ANODE BUT IN DOWNS PROCESS GRAPHITE ROD IS USED AS ANODE...WHY???

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Please find below the solution to the asked query:

Both the process is used for the preparation of metallic sodium. However, in the Castner process the conditions are different than Downs process. We have to be careful in choosing the electrode as it should react with the electrolyte and must provide a conduction medium for electrons to travel smoothly. In the process as stated by Castner, he found the Nickel or Iron rods better suited for their needs. However, Downs found graphite rods better than others, it is due to their different characteristics that we call the process by their different names.

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