Question detail
What will be produced at the cathode during the electrolysis of an aqueous solution of copper(II) sulfate if copper is less reactive than hydrogen?
Try the question, check the answer, then read the explanation to understand the curriculum point.
At a glance
Question
Type
exam_style
Style
Topic
Electrolysis
Question
What will be produced at the cathode during the electrolysis of an aqueous solution of copper(II) sulfate if copper is less reactive than hydrogen?
Answer
Copper will be produced at the cathode during the electrolysis of an aqueous solution of copper(II) sulfate because it is less reactive than hydrogen. This allows copper ions to gain electrons and be discharged as copper metal.
Explanation
This question tests the student's understanding of the reactivity series and its application to electrolysis. It requires the student to predict the product at the cathode based on the relative reactivity of the metal and hydrogen.
Common mistake
Misunderstanding Reactivity
Students often think that the metal will always be produced at the cathode during electrolysis, regardless of its reactivity compared to hydrogen.
Remind students that a metal will only be produced at the cathode if it is less reactive than hydrogen; otherwise, hydrogen gas will be produced instead.
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