Electrolysis of lead bromide

As seen in class molten lead bromide can be separated into lead and bromine using electrolysis.  It must be molten so that the ions are free to move and conduct electricity.  When an electric current is applied the following half cell reactions take place:

At the anode (+ve electrode) the negative bromide ions are attracted, where they lose electrons and become bromine gas:

2Br^-(l) → Br₂(g) + 2e^-

This is an oxidation reaction.

At the cathode (-ve electrode) the positive lead ions are attracted, they gain electrons and become molten lead.

Pb²⁺(l) + 2e^- → Pb(l)

This is a reduction reaction.

Remember OIL RIG and you can't go wrong with electrolysis. Oxidation Is Loss of electrons, Reduction Is Gain of electrons.

Check out this YouTube video below of the electrolysis of lead bromide: