Question

Copper sulphate solution is electrolysed using copper electrodes. Study the diagram given below and answer the question that follows:

1. Which electrode to your left or right is known as the oxidising electrode and why?

2. Write the equation representing the reaction that occurs.

3. State two appropriate observations for the above electrolysis reaction.

Answer 1

1. Right electrode is known as oxidising electrode because copper ion gain electron to form copper metal i.e., reduction takes place.

2. At Catode: Cu²⁺ + 2e^– → Cu

At Anode: Cu – 2e^– → Cu²⁺ 

3. (a) Reddish brown metal copper is deposited at cathode. 

(b) Blue colour of electrolytic solution i.e., CuSO₄ does not fades during the process.