During the Electrolytic Refining of Blister Copper, various metallic impurities behave differently b — Metallurgy and Isolation of Elements Chemistry Question
Question
During the Electrolytic Refining of Blister Copper, various metallic impurities behave differently based on their standard reduction potentials. Which of the following sets of elements are predominantly recovered from the "Anode Mud" (or sludge) at the bottom of the electrolytic cell?
💡 Solution & Explanation
In electrolytic refining, the impure copper is the anode. More electropositive impurities (Fe, Zn, Ni) oxidize and dissolve into the electrolyte but do not deposit on the cathode. Less electropositive, noble impurities (Ag, Au, Pt) cannot be oxidized at the cell voltage. They fall off the disintegrating anode and collect at the bottom as highly valuable anode mud.