Chapter U1.27, Problem 6E

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

Whether the mass of a nickel strip will change after copper plating or not must be explained.

Concept introduction:

Copper plating is an electrochemical reaction in which copper is deposited on a metal.

If nickel is taken as cathode then the copper will deposit on the nickel.

Answer to Problem 6E

Nickel will be electroplated or covered by copper. So the mass of the nickel strip will increase.

Explanation of Solution

In a copper plating experiment, Cu is taken as anode and any metal which needs to be copper plated is taken as a cathode. In this case, the nickel strip is taken as a cathode, on which copper plating will take place. One electrolyte is taken containing copper ion like copper sulfate.

The reduction of copper takes place as follows:

  ${\text{Cu}}^{2+}+2e\to \mathrm{Cu}$

As an anode, copper will lose electrons due to oxidation and copper ions will dissolve into the electrolyte, resulting in the thinning of the anode plate. Ni as cathode will accept electrons and copper ions from the electrolyte will gain electrons on account of reduction at the cathode and will convert to copper metal depositing on the nickel strip. It will lead to the thickening of the nickel strip

Conclusion

After copper plating of nickel, the mass of the nickel strip increases.