In the context of the Hall-Heroult process for the extraction of Al
In the context of the Hall-Heroult process for the extraction of Al, which of the following statements is false?
- Al2O3 is mixed with CaF2 which lowers the melting point of the mixture and brings conductivity
- Al3+ is reduced at the cathode to form Al
- Na3AlF6 serves as the electrolyte
- CO and CO2 are produced in this process
Solution
In Hall-Heroult process,
2 Al2O3 + 3 C → 4 Al + 3CO2
Oxygen liberated at anode reacts with carbon anode to give CO and CO2.
Na3AlF6 (cryolite) or CaF2 is mixed with purified Al2O3 to lower the melting point for easier electrolysis.
The correct option is C.