Describe the process of purification of impure copper using electroplating. [5 MARKS]

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Solution

Concept: 1 Mark
Explanation: 4 Marks

In this process, the positive electrode (the anode) is made of the impure copper which is to be purified. The negative electrode (the cathode) is a bar of pure copper. The two electrodes are placed in a solution of copper sulphate.

Copper ions leave the anode and are attracted to the cathode, where they are deposited as copper atoms. The pure copper cathode increases in size, while the anode dwindles away. The impurities left behind at the anode form a sludge beneath it.

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Describe the process of purification of impure copper using electroplating. [5 MARKS]

Q. In the purification of impure copper using electrolysis, which of the following is correct?

The process of purification of an impure metal is like :
(a) electroplating a metal on the same type of metal
(b) electroplating a metal on another type of metal
(c) producing a chemical compound by electrolysis
(d) decomposing a chemical compound by electrolysis.

Q. The anode used during purification of impure copper is__________.

[pure thin

C u

sheet / thick impure

C u

block]

Q. The process that you see is used for purification of copper. A thin plate of pure copper and a thick rod of impure copper are used as electrodes. Copper from impure rod is sought to be transferred to the thin copper plate. Which electrode should be attached to the positive terminal of battery and why?

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