Page 5 - 3. Lesson Notes- Ch-3 Mettalurgy-2

II. Copper Glance (Cu2S)-

1. Electrolytic refining of copper-

 Electrolyte- Acidified Copper Sulphate solution -CuSO4 (H2SO4).
 Electrodes- 1. Cathode- A thin strip of pure Copper.
2. Anode – A thick rod of impure Copper.

On passing electric current, through copper sulphate solution-

i. The impure copper from the anode dissolves and goes into copper
sulphate solution.
ii. The pure copper from copper sulphate deposits on cathode. Thus
pure copper metal is produced on the cathode.
iii. The impurities from the Anode get settled at the bottom of the cell as
Anode mud/sludge.

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