What is the ionic equation for the anode reaction during the electrolysis of copper chloride?

During the electrolysis of copper(II) chloride, the anode is where oxidation occurs. The correct ionic equation for the reaction at the anode involves the chloride ions. At the anode, chloride ions (Cl⁻) lose electrons to form chlorine gas (Cl₂). The reaction is represented as:

2Cl⁻ → Cl₂ + 2e⁻.

This shows that two chloride ions are participating in the reaction, losing a total of two electrons to produce one molecule of chlorine gas. The process of oxidation is characterized by the loss of electrons, which is precisely what happens in this reaction.

In the context of the question, the other reactions listed do not occur at the anode during the electrolysis of copper(II) chloride. For instance, the reduction of copper ions at the cathode is represented by Cu²⁺ + 2e⁻ → Cu, while the oxidation of water to produce oxygen gas and electrons does not occur under typical conditions for copper chloride electrolysis. Additionally, the reduction of lead ions is unrelated to the electrolysis of copper(II) chloride.