During the electrolytic refining of copper, which of the following observations is correct?
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A.
Impurities from crude copper move to the cathode along with pure copper.
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B.
Pure copper is deposited at the anode, and impurities settle as anode mud.
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C.
The anode dissolves, and pure copper is deposited at the cathode.
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D.
The electrolyte is a neutral solution that does not participate in the refining process.
Correct Answer:
C. The anode dissolves, and pure copper is deposited at the cathode.
Explanation:
During the electrolytic refining of copper, a thick slab of impure copper serves as the anode, while a thin strip of pure copper acts as the cathode. When an electric current is passed through the acidified copper sulfate electrolyte, copper ions from the solution are reduced and deposited onto the cathode as pure metal. Simultaneously, an equivalent amount of copper from the impure anode dissolves into the electrolyte. Soluble impurities enter the solution, while insoluble impurities fall below the anode, forming anode mud. Therefore, the process is characterized by the anode dissolving and pure copper being deposited at the cathode.
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