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In electrolytic refining process, on passing the current impurities settle down, those impurities are known as ________.
electrolytic mud
gangue
cathode mud
anode mud
anode mud
In the electrolytic refining of metals, the insoluble impurities that settle at the bottom of the electrolytic cell beneath the anode are collectively called 'anode mud' or 'anode slime'. These impurities typically contain valuable noble metals like gold, silver, and platinum which were present as impurities in the original crude metal.
In the electrolytic refining of metals, the insoluble impurities that settle at the bottom of the electrolytic cell beneath the anode are collectively called 'anode mud' or 'anode slime'. These impurities typically contain valuable noble metals like gold, silver, and platinum which were present as impurities in the original crude metal.
Think of it like a coffee filter: as water passes through, the liquid (the metal ions) passes into the cup, while the solid, unwanted grounds (the anode mud) are left behind in the filter.
Remember 'Mud falls at the Anode' = 'Anode Mud'.
M(s)тЖТMn+(aq)+neтИТ тАФ Reaction at Anode (Oxidation)
Mn+(aq)+neтИТтЖТM(s) тАФ Reaction at Cathode (Reduction)
During electrolysis, the impure metal acts as the anode and dissolves into the electrolyte as ions. While base metals go into the solution, the less reactive (noble) metal impurities do not oxidize; they fall to the bottom of the tank as sludge because they are not strong enough to enter the ionic state under the applied potential. This process is commonly used for copper refining where CuтЖТCu2++2eтИТ occurs at the anode, leaving behind more noble species like Au and Ag.
Anode mud accumulates under the anode.
It consists of noble metals that are more electropositive than the metal being refined.
The process is widely used for purifying Copper, Silver, and Gold.
The electrolyte is typically a salt solution of the metal being refined.
High purity of the refined metal (up to 99.99%).
Recovery of precious metal impurities.
High electricity consumption.
Large-scale infrastructure required.
Industrial production of high-conductivity electrolytic copper.
Refining of silver and gold in mints and bullion centers.
The impurities like iron, nickel, and zinc (which are more reactive) dissolve into the electrolyte but do not deposit at the cathode, keeping the refined metal pure.
Option A, B, and C are incorrect as they do not refer to the standard metallurgical terminology for sludge deposited at the anode.
D is correct тАФ The insoluble impurities that collect at the bottom of the anode in an electrolytic cell are known as anode mud.
Always remember that oxidation occurs at the anode (Anode=Oxidation) and reduction occurs at the cathode (Cathode=Reduction) in electrolytic cells.