Final answer:
KOH as an electrolyte in electrolysis produces hydrogen and oxygen gases, not toxic gases. Care is needed due to the caustic nature of KOH and combustibility of the gases produced.
Step-by-step explanation:
When potassium hydroxide (KOH) is used as an electrolyte in the process of electrolysis, it dissociates into potassium ions (K⁺) and hydroxide ions (OH⁻) in solution. The primary reactions at the electrodes involve the hydroxide ions and water, leading to the production of hydrogen gas at the cathode and oxygen gas at the anode.
No toxic gases are directly released by the electrolysis of KOH itself. However, it is essential to handle the potassium hydroxide and the gases produced with care, as KOH is a caustic substance and the hydrogen and oxygen gases are combustible when mixed.
Example Reaction:
Anode (oxidation): 4OH⁻ → O₂(g) + 2H₂O(l) + 4e⁻
Cathode (reduction): 4H⁺ + 4e⁻ → 2H₂(g)
When electrolysis is carried out on solutions mixed with other substances or impurities, such as chloride ions, different reactions may occur which could produce gases like chlorine.