Effect of increasing charge on mass of copper deposited during electrolysis.

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Effect of increasing charge on mass of copper deposited during electrolysis

Aim: It is known that by passing a constant electric current through an aqueous copper sulphate solution that the passage of ions through this solution results in copper atoms being dissolved into the solution from the anode while positive copper ions (cations) are being discharged at the cathode.

The experiment I will carry out is aimed to monitor the quantity of Copper (Cu) metal deposited during the electrolysis of Copper Sulphate solution (CuSo4) using Copper electrodes, when certain variables were changed.


Plan

Diagram

Method

My apparatus for this experiment will be:

  • A Power Pack
  • 2 Copper electrodes
  • An ammeter
  • Wire, with clips
  • A beaker

I will pour the Copper Sulphate solution into a small beaker. I will then weigh the electrodes and record their masses. I will then place the electrodes into the beaker containing Copper Sulphate solution. I will then connect the electrodes to the power pack and the ammeter. A steady current will be made (3 Amps) and the experiment will be stopped at definite times (i.e. 5,10,15,20,25 minutes). At these times the current will be switched off and both electrodes will be removed from the solution. They will then be dried by dipping into propanone (a highly volatile liquid which readily evaporates)

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Variables

The factors that my effect the outcome of the experiment are:

1. Time

2. Current

3. Temperature

4. Molarity/Concentration of Solution

5. Quantity of Solution

6. Size of Electrodes

7. Distance between the electrodes

8. The surface of the electrodes

My controlled variable will be the Charge (amps). My independent variable will be the Time and the dependent variable will be the mass of the cathode (grams).

Prediction
It is possible to predict that the relationship will be directly proportional between the charge and the mass of Copper deposited on the Cathode (negative electrode). I can therefore predict that ...

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