Question

Answer the following questions with respect to the electrolytic process in the extraction of aluminium:

Identify the components of the electrolyte other than pure alumina and the role played by each.

Answer 1

Cryolite and fluorspar are components of the electrolyte. Addition of cryolite enhances the conductivity of the mixture since, pure alumina is almost a non-conductor of electricity. Addition of both cryolite and fluorspar lowers the fusion point of the mixture i.e., mixture fuses around 950°C instead of 2050°C.