What is electroplating?

The process of using electrolysis to cover materials with a layer of metal.

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What are some uses of electroplating?

Uses of electroplating:

  1. Improving the appearance of metals
  2. Increasing resistance to corrosion

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How does electroplating increase resistance to corrosion?

Electroplating adds a layer of metal that reduces exposure to air and water, providing sacrificial protection.

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What happens at the cathode during electroplating?

The object being electroplated is connected to the cathode.

Metal ions from the anode gain electrons to form a layer of metal on the surface.

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Outline the steps involved in electroplating.

Electroplating process:

  1. The cathode is the object being electroplated.
  2. The electrolyte is a solution with ions of the plating metal. 
  3. The anode is a bar of the plating metal.
  4. Positively charged metal ions move to the cathode and gain electrons to become neutral atoms that coat the object. 
  5. Metal atoms at the anode lose electrons to become positive ions that replace those used up.

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What happens to metal ions when they reach the cathode?

The metal ions gain electrons to become neutral metal atoms that coat the cathode surface.

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What makes electroplating useful for making jewellery? 

Jewellery can be electroplated with attractive metals like gold or silver to give a shiny appearance.

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