In the electrolytic refining of a metal M, what would you take as the anode, the cathode, and the electrolyte?
The process of purifying impure metal is called the refining of the metal. The most important and most widely used method for refining impure metals is called electrolytic refining.
At Cathode: A thin strip of pure metal(M) is placed at the cathode.
At Anode: A thick block of impure metal(M) is placed at the anode.
Electrolyte: A water-soluble salt ( of the metal M to be refined) is used as an electrolyte.
Example: Electrolytic refining of Copper metal is given below:
Electro refining of copper.
Impure copper is made the anode and a thin strip of pure copper is made the cathode.
A solution of acidified copper sulphate is taken as an electrolyte.
On passing the current the pure metal from the anode dissolves into the electrolyte and equivalent amount of pure metal is deposited on the cathode.
At Anode:- Cu(s)⟶ Cu2+(aq) + 2e−
At Cathode:- Cu2++2e−⟶ Cu(s)
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