In the electrolytic refining of copper, Ag and Au are found : — Metallurgy and Isolation of Elements Chemistry Question

💡 Solution & Explanation

Step 1: During the electrolytic refining of copper, impure copper is made the anode and pure copper is the cathode. Step 2: Highly noble metals like Silver (Ag) and Gold (Au) have much lower oxidation tendencies than copper and do not dissolve into the acidic copper sulfate electrolyte. Step 3: As the copper anode dissolves, these insoluble precious metals simply fall to the bottom of the cell below the anode, forming what is known as 'anode mud' (or anode slime). Thus, the correct option is (c).