Extracting Metals by Electrolysis Flashcards

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How does a metal's position in the reactivity series tell you if it must be extracted by electrolysis instead of by carbon?

If the metal is more reactive than carbon (above carbon in the series), it must be extracted by electrolysis.

What is electrolysis?

Electrolysis is the breaking down of a molten or dissolved ionic compound using an electric current.

Why must an ionic compound be molten or dissolved before it can be used to extract a metal by electrolysis?

When it is molten or in solution, the ions are free to move, so they can carry charge and reach the electrodes to react.

In electrolysis of a molten metal compound, which electrode does the metal form at, and why?

The metal forms at the negative electrode (cathode) because the metal ions are positive and are attracted to it.

In electrolysis, what happens to the non-metal ions at the positive electrode (anode)?

The non-metal ions lose electrons and form atoms or a gas at the anode.

What is the name of the ore used to obtain aluminium, and what is the main compound in it?

The ore is bauxite, and it mainly contains aluminium oxide, Al2O3.

Why is aluminium oxide dissolved in molten cryolite in the extraction of aluminium?

Cryolite lowers the melting point of aluminium oxide, so less energy and money are needed to melt it.

In the extraction of aluminium, what forms at the cathode and what forms at the anode?

Molten aluminium metal forms at the cathode. Oxygen gas forms at the anode and reacts with the carbon electrodes to make carbon dioxide.

Why do the carbon anodes in aluminium extraction need to be replaced regularly?

The oxygen made at the anode reacts with the hot carbon to form carbon dioxide, so the carbon anodes wear away.

Write the half equation for aluminium ions gaining electrons at the cathode during aluminium extraction.

Al3+ + 3e- -> Al

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