Chapter 21, Problem 53A

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: The method of electroplating a teaspoon with silver needs to be explained.

Concept Introduction: An application of electrolytic cells is electroplating. In this method, a metal can be plated on another metal in order to protect it from corrosion. Here, the metal used for plating must have a higher tendency to undergo oxidation as compared to the metal on which plating is done.

Explanation of Solution

In the electroplating of a teaspoon with silver, the anode is made of a silver metal where oxidation takes place and the teaspoon to be coated with silver is the cathode of an electrolytic cell. The electrolyte used in the electrolytic cell must contain silver ions $\left({\text{Ag}}^{+}\right)$ . The silver ions at the cathode are reduced to silver which is then coated on the teaspoon.