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JEE Advanced levelOne or more correct optionsDifficulty 3 of 3mt185

During electrolytic refining of copper, the anode contains with , and impurities. Given , , , , and that the cell is run at a small voltage so that only copper is deposited at the cathode, which statements are correct?

  1. A is oxidised at the anode and stays in solution as
  2. B is reduced at the cathode along with
  3. C and are not oxidised and settle as anode mud
  4. DThe concentration of in the electrolyte falls slowly while that of rises

Answer: A, C, D

Zn is more easily oxidised than Cu so it dissolves; Ag and Au need a higher potential and drop as mud. Because Zn2+ is not discharged (E is far below that of Cu2+) every Zn atom dissolved at the anode causes one Cu2+ to be discharged without Cu2+ being replaced, so Cu2+ falls and Zn2+ accumulates. Zn does not deposit.
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More questions on Refining methods: zone refining, van Arkel, Mond process, electrolytic refining