In the electrolytic refining of copper, what reaction occur at the cathode?Select one:a.Cu depositionb.H⁺ reductionc.Cu oxidationd.Cu²⁺ oxidation

Break Down the Problem

1. Identify the electrolytic refining process of copper and its components, particularly the reactions occurring at the cathode.
2. Analyze the options provided to determine which reaction corresponds to the cathode reaction during this process.

Relevant Concepts

1. In electrolytic refining, copper ions (Cu²⁺) from the anode solution are reduced at the cathode.
2. The cathode reaction is typically a reduction reaction, where ions gain electrons.

Analysis and Detail

1. At the cathode in the electrolytic cell:
   • Copper ions (Cu²⁺) in the solution gain electrons.
   • The reduction reaction can be represented as: $\text{Cu}^{2+} + 2e^- \rightarrow \text{Cu (s)}$
2. The provided options can be evaluated:
   • a. Cu deposition: This indicates the deposition of copper at the cathode, which corresponds to the reduction of Cu²⁺ ions.
   • b. H⁺ reduction: This reaction would occur if an acid was part of the solution but is not relevant here.
   • c. Cu oxidation: Oxidation implies a loss of electrons, which occurs at the anode, not at the cathode.
   • d. Cu²⁺ oxidation: This is incorrect as Cu²⁺ ions are reduced, not oxidized.

Verify and Summarize

• The correct reaction at the cathode in the electrolytic refining of copper involves the deposition of copper as a result of the reduction of Cu²⁺ ions.
• Therefore, the correct choice corresponds to option (a).

Final Answer

a. Cu deposition is the reaction that occurs at the cathode during the electrolytic refining of copper.