Question

Write down the reaction occurring on two inert electrodes when electrolysis of copper chloride is done. What will happen if a concentrated solution of copper sulphate is replaced with copper chloride?

Answer 1

Product of electrolysis of copper chloride:

• Cathode (−): \[\ce{Cu^{2+} + 2e− -> Cu(s)}\]
• Anode (+): \[\ce{2Cl− -> Cl2 + 2e-}\]

Product of electrolysis of concentrated copper sulphate:

• Cathode (−): \[\ce{Cu^{2+} + 2e− -> Cu(s)}\]
• Anode (+): \[\ce{SO^{2-}4 → S2O8 + 2e-}\]