During electrolytic refining, which of the following occurs at the anode?
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A.
Oxidation of metal
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B.
Reduction of metal
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C.
Metal deposition
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D.
Hydrogen gas formation
Correct Answer:
A. Oxidation of metal
Explanation:
In electrolytic refining, the anode is composed of the impure metal that needs to be purified. When an electric current is applied, the metal atoms at the anode lose electrons and dissolve into the electrolyte solution as positively charged ions. This process is known as oxidation. For instance, in copper refining, the reaction is represented as Cu (solid) to Cu2+ (aqueous) + 2e-. While the metal dissolves, insoluble impurities either remain attached to the anode or settle at the bottom of the cell as anode slime, effectively separating the pure metal from its contaminants. Therefore, the correct answer is the oxidation of metal.
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