Electrolysis – Notes

Application of Electrolysis: Electro Refining

Electro refining is defined as the process by which an impure metal is purified electrolytically to obtain a pure metal.

In this method, the impure metal is cast into the anode and a strip of the same metal in its pure form is used as the cathode.

An aqueous solution containing a soluble salt of the same metal is used as the electrolyte.

During electro refining, pure metal is deposited on the cathode.

The more basic impurities dissolve in the electrolyte solution, while the insoluble impurities, particularly the less basic ones, settle at the bottom of the electrolyte as anode mud.

Acids, Bases and Salts as Electrolytes

Strong electrolytes completely dissociate in their molten aqueous states, so they are good conductors of electricity.