Question detail
Explain why aluminium is extracted by electrolysis rather than reduction with carbon.
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
Explain why aluminium is extracted by electrolysis rather than reduction with carbon.
Answer
Aluminium is extracted by electrolysis because it is more reactive than carbon, making it difficult to reduce aluminium oxide using carbon. Electrolysis allows for the extraction of aluminium directly from its ore.
Explanation
This question assesses the student's ability to apply knowledge of reactivity series and extraction methods. The answer highlights the reasoning behind the choice of electrolysis for aluminium extraction over carbon reduction.
Common mistake
Misidentifying the anode product
Students often write that aluminium is produced at the anode during aluminium extraction.
Explain that aluminium ions are reduced at the cathode to give aluminium metal, while oxide ions are oxidised at the anode to give oxygen gas.
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