What is the primary product formed at the anode during the electrolysis of molten sodium chloride using inert electrodes?

💡 Solution & Explanation

During the electrolysis of molten sodium chloride in a Downs cell, chloride ions migrate to the positively charged anode where they undergo oxidation to release chlorine gas. Sodium ions migrate to the cathode to gain electrons and deposit as molten sodium metal. Water is absent in molten salts, preventing hydrogen or oxygen evolution.