Question

A trivalent metal X is isolated by the process of electrolysis. It is the most abundant metal in the earth's crust. Identify the metal and state its two uses.

Answer 1

1. Trivalent metal

A trivalent metal is a metal with valency 3. Aluminium is the most abundant element present on the earth's crust.

2. Electrolysis

Electrolysis is the process involving oxidation and reduction of a substance to cause a chemical change in presence of an electric current. The metal aluminium (Al) is isolated from the molten state of Aluminium oxide $\left({\mathrm{Al}}_2{\mathrm{O}}_3\right)$ using this process and the reaction is given below:

$$\begin{gathered} {\mathrm{Al}}_2{\mathrm{O}}_3\stackrel{\mathrm{Electrolysis}}{\to }2{\mathrm{Al}}^{3+}+3{\mathrm{O}}^{2-} \\ \left(\mathrm{Molten}\right) \end{gathered}$$

3. Uses of Aluminium

1. It is used for the manufacture of aircraft.
2. It is used for making vessels for cooking.