Which of the following occurs when a solution of CuSO4 is electrolysed using copper electrodes?
Answer Details
When a solution of CuSO4 is electrolyzed using copper electrodes, the cathode becomes coated with copper. This happens because during electrolysis, positively charged copper ions (Cu2+) migrate towards the negatively charged cathode, where they receive electrons from the electrode and are reduced to neutral copper atoms. These copper atoms then combine and deposit on the surface of the cathode, causing it to become coated with copper. The other options are incorrect because: - Both electrodes do not gain electrons; rather, the cathode gains electrons while the anode loses electrons. - The blue color of the solution fading gradually is not a specific outcome of the electrolysis of CuSO4. - The anode does not increase in mass; rather, it loses mass due to the oxidation reaction that occurs at the anode during electrolysis.