The electrolysis of copper sulphate solution and copper electrodes

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Introduction:

For my GCSE Chemistry assessment I will be investigating the electrolysis of copper sulphate solution with the copper (ii) plates.

Aim:

My intention for this observation is to find out how the current has an effect on the mass of copper deposited in the electrolysis of copper sulphate and copper (ii) plates.

Safety Precautions:

In this investigation I will make sure that everything is as safe as possible and that there are no chances of accidents occurring.

  1. I will wear safety glasses and a lab coat to avoid any danger.
  2. I will tie my hair back, which will prevent any accidents from occurring.
  3. I will keep the area around me clear to prevent any accidents from occurring.

  1. Benches should be tucked under the table so that nobody trips over.
  2. As copper sulphate indicates the symbol, which means toxic, I will be careful that it is kept away from my skin and I am not able to smell it. The reason for this is that it can cause death. 
  3. Copper sulphate will be placed in the tray at all times so that if it spills it will only spill in the tray.
  4. I will not keep the power on more than 10 minutes, as keeping the power on for too long can change the resistance of the wire.
  5. As the copper sulphate is dangerous I will wash my hands after each experiment.

Apparatus:

The apparatus that I require in this investigation is:

  1. Measuring cylinder- This will be used to measure 150ml of the copper sulphate solution
  2. Ammeter- This will be used to se how much current is flowing through the circuit
  3. Stop watch- This will be used to time how long the practical will be on for.
  4. Auto rip (resistor)- this will be used to change the current going through the circuit.
  5. Power pack- this will be where the power comes from and also the current can be changed.
  6. Copper sulphate solution- this will be used as the electrolyte
  7. Copper plates- this will be used as the cathode and anode
  8. Distilled water- this will be used for the cathode to be washed after the reaction
  9. Ethanol- this will be used to keep the copper shiny on the plates.
  10. Oven- this will be used to dry the cathode to weigh it.
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  1. Wires- this will be used to join the circuit up.
  2. Weighing scale- this will be used to weigh the cathode each time.
  3. Sand Paper- this will be used to scrap off any impure copper.

Scientific Knowledge:

When copper is extracted from the ore it is about 98% pure so electrolysis is used to make the copper more purer. Electrolysis is used in big industries to get metals purified. As they want the metals 100% pure.

What is electrolysis?

Electrolysis is the procedure, which is used for the ...

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