Question

A solution of Silver nitrate is a good electrolyte but is not used for electroplating an article with silver. Why?

Answer 1

• Electrolytes are species or compounds that are good conductors of electricity by forming ions upon dissociation.
• Electrolytes are of two types based on its ability to form ions.
• Strong electrolytes dissociate completely to ions while weak electrolytes undergo only partial dissociation so they ar not good conductors of electricity as well.
• A solution of Silver nitrate($\mathit{A}\mathit{g}\mathit{N}{\mathit{O}}_{\mathbf{3}}$) is a strong electrolyte and is able to dissociate faster to its respective ions.
• The dissociation of Silver nitrate produce Silver ion($\mathit{A}{\mathit{g}}^{\mathbf{+}}$) and Nitrate ion($\mathit{N}{{\mathit{O}}_{\mathbf{3}}}^{\mathbf{-}}$)

$AgN{O}_3\leftrightarrow A{g}^{+}+N{O_3}^{-}$

• Silver nitrate is able to produce Silver ions faster so if it is used for electroplating the accumulation of silver will be faster and hence a uniforme coating will not be there.
• Silver nitrate is not used for electroplating because it is a strong electrolyte and the rate of accumulation of silver will be faster and non uniform.