Here's why:
* Electrolysis: This process uses an electric current to drive a non-spontaneous chemical reaction.
* Molten Lead Bromide: In its molten state, lead bromide dissociates into lead(II) ions (Pb²⁺) and bromide ions (Br⁻).
* Anode: The positive electrode attracts negatively charged ions.
* Reaction at the Anode: Bromide ions (Br⁻) lose electrons and become bromine gas (Br₂), which is released at the anode. The reaction is:
2Br⁻ → Br₂ + 2e⁻
* Simultaneous Reaction: At the cathode (negative electrode), lead(II) ions (Pb²⁺) gain electrons and become lead metal (Pb). The reaction is:
Pb²⁺ + 2e⁻ → Pb
Therefore, the positive electrode (anode) is where bromine gas is produced, but the lead metal is produced at the negative electrode (cathode).
