Askiitians Tutor Team
Last Activity: 5 Months ago
When we talk about the purification of copper through electrolysis, it's essential to understand the roles of the anode, cathode, and the electrolyte solution involved in the process. Let's break down each of the statements you've provided to clarify their accuracy and relevance in the context of copper purification.
Analyzing the Statements
Statement (a): The anode used is made of copper ore
This statement is not accurate. In the electrolysis process for copper purification, the anode is typically made of impure copper, not copper ore. The impure copper dissolves into the electrolyte solution, releasing copper ions into the solution. Copper ore contains various minerals and metals, which are not suitable for use as an anode in this process.
Statement (b): Pure copper is deposited on the cathode
This statement is correct. During electrolysis, pure copper ions from the electrolyte migrate to the cathode, where they gain electrons and are reduced to solid copper. This process results in the deposition of pure copper on the cathode, effectively increasing its mass and purity.
Statement (c): The impurities such as Ag, Au present in solution as ions
This statement is partially true. While silver (Ag) and gold (Au) can be present as impurities in the impure copper anode, they do not dissolve as ions in the same way that copper does. Instead, they tend to remain in the solution as solid particles or precipitates because they are less soluble than copper ions. During the electrolysis process, these impurities typically settle at the bottom of the electrolytic cell or remain in the anode sludge.
Statement (d): Concentration of CuSO4 solution remains constant during dissolution of Cu
This statement is generally correct under ideal conditions. As copper dissolves from the anode, it releases copper ions into the solution, which are then deposited at the cathode. If the electrolysis is conducted properly, the concentration of copper sulfate (CuSO4) in the solution remains relatively constant because the amount of copper ions entering the solution from the anode is balanced by the amount being deposited at the cathode. However, in practical scenarios, some adjustments may be needed to maintain this balance, especially if the electrolysis continues for an extended period.
Understanding the Electrolysis Process
To summarize, the electrolysis of copper purification involves the following key steps:
- Anode Reaction: Impure copper anode dissolves, releasing Cu²⁺ ions into the solution.
- Cathode Reaction: Cu²⁺ ions migrate to the cathode, where they gain electrons and deposit as pure copper.
- Impurities: Metals like silver and gold, which are less soluble, do not dissolve and can be collected as sludge.
- Electrolyte Stability: The concentration of CuSO4 remains stable if the system is well-managed.
In conclusion, understanding these aspects of the electrolysis process is crucial for grasping how copper is purified effectively. Each component plays a vital role in ensuring that the final product is of high purity, which is essential for various industrial applications.
