Kolbe s electrolytic method is a process used for the preparation of Alkane. In it alkanes are obtained by the electrolysis of sodium salt of carboxylic acid. e.g., 2CH<sub>3</sub>COONA + 2CH<sub>3</sub>COO<sup>–</sup> + 2Na<sup>+</sup> At anode 2CH<sub>3</sub>COO → CH<sub>3</sub> + 2CO<sub>2</sub> + 2e<sup>–</sup> At cathode 2Na<sup>+</sup> + 2e<sup>–</sup> → 2Na 2Na + 2H<sub>2</sub>O → 2NaOH + H<sub>2</sub> ↑