Electrorefining of Copper

Cu (impure) → Cu2+ + 2e− → Cu (pure)

概要

Impure copper anodes (99.5%) dissolve electrochemically while pure copper (99.99%) deposits at the cathode from CuSO₄/H₂SO₄ electrolyte. Impurities either remain in solution or fall as anode slime (containing gold, silver, platinum). The voltage required is only 0.2–0.3 V since the same reaction occurs at both electrodes.

参加者

役割 物質 係数 状態
反応物 Copper Cu 1 (s)
生成物 Copper Cu 1 (s)

日常の例

All the copper wiring in your home was refined to 99.99% purity by this electrorefining process.

産業上の重要性

世界の銅の約80%（年間2,000万トン）が電解精錬される。スライムとして回収される貴金属（金、銀、プラチナ族）が精錬所の収益に大きく貢献する。

特性

タイプ
Electrochemical
可逆的
いいえ
エネルギー
吸熱性
ΔH
0.0 kJ/mol

関連する反応

Electrolysis of Water Electrolytic Production of Chlorate Alkaline Battery Discharge Anodizing of Aluminum Cathodic Protection (Zinc Sacrificial Anode) Chlor-Alkali Electrolysis Chrome Electroplating Nickel-Metal Hydride Battery Sodium-Sulfur Battery Electrochemical CO₂ Reduction to CO

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the equation for Electrorefining of Copper?
The balanced equation is: Cu (impure) → Cu²⁺ + 2e⁻ → Cu (pure).
What type of reaction is Electrorefining of Copper?
Electrorefining of Copper is a electrochemical reaction.
Is Electrorefining of Copper exothermic or endothermic?
Electrorefining of Copper is endothermic (absorbs energy). The enthalpy change (ΔH) is 0.0 kJ/mol.