The electrolysis of copper(ii) sulfate solution using inert electrodes
2 marks · NormalState the products formed at the cathode and at the anode during the electrolysis of copper(II) sulfate solution using inert electrodes.
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Cathode: copper (Cu). Anode: oxygen (O2).
Also accept: Cathode: copper metal; anode: oxygen gas; Copper at cathode; oxygen at anode
Common mistakes: Stating hydrogen or sulfate as products
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Marking points
B1 · 1 mark · States copper (Cu) is formed at the cathode
B2 · 1 mark · States oxygen (O2) is formed at the anode
Worked solution
At the cathode, copper(II) ions are reduced to copper metal, so copper is formed at the cathode.
At the anode, hydroxide ions are oxidised to form oxygen gas, so oxygen is formed at the anode.
| Electrode | Product |
|---|---|
| Cathode | Copper (Cu) |
| Anode | Oxygen (O2) |