Question

Why reactive metals are not extracted from their aqueous salt solutions by electrolysis? (2 marks)

Answer 1

The reactive metals are not extracted from their aqueous salt solutions by electrolysis because the aqueous solution will contain ${\text{H}}^{+}$ ion obtained from dissociation of water molecule, along with metal ion. (0.5 mark)

When we pass electric current, the ${\text{H}}^{+}$ ions get discharged in preference to metal. (0.5 mark)

As a result, the product formed at cathode is hydrogen gas and not the metal. (1 mark)