2.23c - 2.27c Extraction and uses of metals
2.23 Activity 3. Aluminium extraction
Electrolysis is used to extract reactive metals from their ores. Aluminium is a good example of this. Work through the animation carefully and then answer the questions below:
​1. What ions are present in the compound aluminium oxide?
2. What is the aluminium oxide mixed with to make the electrolyte?
3. Why do you think a mixture is used ?
4. After a while the positive electrodes become eroded and need to be replaced. Why do you think this is?
5. Write a half equation for the change that happens at the cathode.
6. Write a half equation for the change that happens at the anode.
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