The electrolysis of copper(ii) sulfate solution using inert electrodes
2 marks · HardWrite the balanced half-equation for the reaction that takes place at the cathode when copper(II) sulfate solution is electrolysed using inert electrodes.
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Cu^{2+}(aq) + 2e^- → Cu(s)
Must show: Copper(II) ion as reactant, Correct electron number and side, Solid copper as product, State symbols used
Common mistakes: Incorrect number of electrons; Omitting state symbols; Reversing the half-equation
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Marking points
M1 · 1 mark · Correctly identifies copper(II) ions gaining electrons (reduction), on left-hand side with electrons.
A1 · 1 mark · Fully balanced half-equation with state symbols, correct number of electrons, and copper metal produced.
Worked solution
At the cathode, copper(II) ions are reduced by gaining electrons to form copper metal.