Question

If plus sign (+) denotes the positive electrode and minus sign (-) denotes the negative electrode, then which of the following statement is correct for an iron spoon to be copper plated?

• A. Iron spoon (+), copper plate (-), Iron sulphate electrolyte
• B. Iron spoon (-), copper plate (+), Iron sulphate electrolyte
• C. Copper plate (-), Iron spoon (+), Copper sulphate electrolyte
• D. Copper plate (+), Iron spoon (-), Copper sulphate electrolyte

Answer 1

The correct option is D Copper plate (+), Iron spoon (-), Copper sulphate electrolyte

The copper acts as a positive electrode (+) and iron acts as a negative electrode (-). This setup is used for electroplating the iron spoon with copper.
When electricity is passed through the electrode then the copper sulphate ionizes to form copper ions and sulphate ions. Copper (positive) ions move towards the iron (negative) electrode and this forms a layer of copper over iron.