Question

Why is electrolytic reduction preferred?

Answer 1

Reduction by electrolysis:

• The oldest method of separation and purification was the electrolytic reduction of mercury cathode.
• The electrolytic cell had two chambers: anode and cathode, which were connected by a salt bridge.

Electrolytic reduction is the preferred method of reduction.

• More reactive metals, such as alkali and alkaline earth metals, can be easily reduced by external potential and have a higher affinity for oxygen than carbon. As a result, electrolysis is chosen over chemical reduction.
• Applying an external potential from the outside is a simple way to induce electrolytic reduction.
• Furthermore, more reactive metals than carbon have a stronger affinity for oxygen.