Question

Why does the anode dissolve when an aqueous solution of CuSO₄ is subjected to electrolysis using copper electrodes?

Answer 1

When an aqueous solution of CuSO₄ is electrolysed using copper electrodes, the anode dissolves because:

At the anode, oxidation occurs. The copper metal (Cu) from the anode loses electrons and forms Cu²⁺ ions, which go into the solution.

\[\ce{Cu_{(s)} -> Cu{^{2+}_{(aq)}} + 2e-}\]

At the cathode, Cu²⁺ ions from the solution gain electrons and get deposited as copper metal:

\[\ce{Cu{^{2+}_{(aq)}} + 2e- -> Cu_{(s)}}\]

So, the loss of copper from the anode is balanced by the gain of copper at the cathode.