Electrolysis question. Blister copper is a partially refined copper which can fu

Question

Electrolysis question.

Blister copper is a partially refined copper which can further be purified by an electrolytic process. By using blister copper and thin shects of pure copper as electrodes in an acid solution of copper sulfate as the electrolyte, copper goes into the solution to be discharged as metallic copper again. The impurities (usually gold, silver and platinum) sink beneath the anode as anode sludge. a) For both the anode and the cathode of the electrolytic cell: describe what the electrodes are and what are the ions attracted to them. describe what would be observed. link the reactions occurring at each electrode to the movement of ions and electrons within the cell.

Explanation / Answer

1.

Cathode is thin sheet of pure copper. Copper ions are attracted to cathode.

Anode is Blister copper. Sulphate ion,hydroxide ion.

2.

Impure block of copper will be used and lose weight. While weight of cathode will increase with 100% pure copper.

3.

CuSO4 dissociates

CuSo4 = Cu 2+ + SO4 2-

At the cathode

Cu2+ + 2e- = Cu(s) reduction

At the anode

Cu(s) – 2e- = Cu2+ oxidation

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