Question

Describe electrolytic refining of copper.

Answer 1

Answer:

Electrolytic Refining means refining by electrolysis.

Many metals like copper, zinc, tin lead are refined by this method.

Process Of electrolytic Refining :

--> The apparatus consist of Electrolytic tank containing acidified copper sulphate solution as electrolyte.

--> A thick block of impure copper metal is made anode .

---> A thin strip of pure copper metal is made as cathode.

On passing electricity, Impure copper from the anode dissolves and goes into CUSO4 solution and pure copper from the copper sulphate solution deposits on the cathode .

Thus pure copper metal is produced at cathode . The soluble impurities goes into the solution whereas insoluble impurities settles down at anode as anode mud.

Chemical reaction :

 At cathode : Cu²⁺ + 2e  ---->Cu

At anode : Cu - 2e---->Cu²+