Question

Write an explanation:

electrolytic reduction

Answer 1

Electrolytic reduction is a chemical process used to extract highly reactive metals, such as sodium, magnesium, and aluminium, from their molten ores by passing an electric current through them. Because these metals are highly reactive and form very stable compounds, they cannot be extracted using standard chemical reducing agents like carbon. Instead, the ore is melted down, and electricity is passed through the liquid. During this process, the positively charged metal ions are attracted to the negative electrode (the cathode), where they gain electrons and are reduced to form pure metal.