Chapter 21, Problem 75A

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: The process illustrated in the given diagram needs to be described.

Concept Introduction: In a redox reaction, reduction and oxidation take place simultaneously. Here, oxidation takes place at the anode and reduction takes place at the cathode.

Explanation of Solution

In the given process, the spoon is electroplated with silver in an electrolytic cell. Here, the spoon act as a cathode, and metallic silver act as an anode. The electrolyte solution is silver cyanide. In the process, of applying direct current, oxidation of silver at the anode takes place. The silver ions from the anode move to the spoon where they are reduced to silver metal.