Chapter 26, Problem 26.14QP

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

In electrolysis of copper, how long (in hour) the current run to dissolve anode and electroplate it onto the cathode has to be calculated.

Concept introduction:

Electrolysis

• The reduction of metallic compounds to obtain pure metals using current is said to be electrolysis.
• In the process of electrolysis of copper ore, the more electropositive metals are eliminated by an electrolysis.  In this method the impure copper acts as the anone and pre copper acts as the anode through a sulfuric acid solution medium containing ${\text{Cu}}^{\text{2+}}$ ions.  Copper anode dissolves and these metals are fall down to the bottom of the cell.  Then, the net result of this process is exchange of copper form the anode to the cathode.
• First calculate the number moles of electrons needed to reduce given weight of copper. From that determine how long time it will take to be calculate by using cathode reaction.