Question

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

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

Answer 1

Components of electrolyte: Cryolite and fluorspar

Role played by each electrolyte is given below:

• Cryolite lowers the fusion temperature from 2050°C to 950°C and enhances conductivity
• Fluorspar and cryolite act as a solvent for the electrolytic mixture and increase conductivity.