Question

What is anode mud?

Answer 1

1. The electrolytic refining method is widely used for refining impure metals produced by the various reduction process.
2. Many metals like Copper, Tin, Lead, Chromium, Nickel, Gold, and Silver are refined electrolytically.
3. For the refining of an impure metal by electrolysis:
   1. A thick block of impure metal is made anode. (It is connected to the positive terminal of the battery).
   2. A thin strip of pure metal is made as to the cathode. (It is connected to the negative terminal of the battery).
   3. A water-soluble salt (of the metal to be refined) is taken as an electrolyte.
4. When an electric current is passed then the impure metal dissolves from the anode and moves into the electrolyte solution whereas pure metal from the electrolyte deposits on the cathode.
5. The soluble impurities present in the impure metal go into the solution, on the other hand, the insoluble impurities settle down at the bottom of the anode known as 'anode mud'.