Question

The given figure is the experimental setup to refine copper metal. Answer the following question:

In which direction do ${\mathrm{Cu}}^{2+}$ion move in electrolytic cell.

Answer 1

• The cations that are formed in the cell are Copper cations $\left({\mathrm{Cu}}^{2+}\right)$. Hence, these ions will move towards the cathode that is charged negatively.
• The reaction at the cathode is as shown below:

$$\begin{gathered} {\mathrm{Cu}}^{2+}\left(\mathrm{aq}\right)+2{\mathrm{e}}^{-}\to \mathrm{Cu}\left(\mathrm{s}\right) \\ \left(\mathrm{Copper}\right) \end{gathered}$$

Hence, the Copper ions (${\mathrm{Cu}}^{2+}$) in the electrolytic cell will move towards the cathode.