MA2 is an ionic compound (M is a metal and A is a non-metal). In which ions it will be dissociated in aqueous solution? During electrolysis of the aqueous solution of MA2 which ion will be deposited at cathode and which ion will be deposited at anode?

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Please find below the solution for your asked query-

Part1-

The ionic compound MA₂ where M is a metal & A is a non-metal. The compound will dissociate into their respective ions in an aqueous solution in the following manner-

MA₂ → M²⁺ + 2A^-

Reason-

• The metal M forms a cation as metals generally tend to lose their electrons.
• On the other hand, non-metal A forms an anion since non-metals tend to gain electrons.
• The charge of M is +2 & on A is -1 as per the criss-cross method of formation of chemical formula.

Part2-

During electrolysis, generally, the cations move towards the cathode since the cathode is a negatively charged electrode hence it will attract cations towards itself. Therefore, M²⁺ will be deposited on the cathode.

On the other hand, the anions move towards the anode as it is a positively charged electrode hence it will attract anions towards itself. Therefore, A^- will be deposited on the anode.

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