Extracting Copper Quiz
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5 questions, one answer each
Each answer is checked as you go, with why.
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1. Which two methods can obtain copper from solutions of copper salts?
- A. Fractional distillation and filtration
- B. Electrolysis and displacement with scrap iron
- C. Thermal decomposition and titration
- D. Chromatography and crystallisation
2. In electrolytic purification of copper, what is the cathode made of?
- A. Impure copper
- B. Pure copper
- C. Carbon
- D. Scrap iron
3. What happens to iron when it is added to a solution of copper sulfate?
- A. It is reduced, gaining electrons
- B. It is oxidised, losing electrons
- C. It remains unchanged
- D. It forms a precipitate with sulfate ions
4. Why must the anode be impure copper and the cathode pure copper in the electrolytic purification process?
- A. So the anode dissolves, releasing Cu²⁺ ions, while pure copper builds up on the cathode
- B. So both electrodes gain mass equally
- C. Because impure copper cannot conduct electricity
- D. Because pure copper cannot be used as an anode
5. A recycling company has a dilute leachate solution containing copper ions from bioleaching low-grade ore, and a supply of scrap iron from old car parts. Which process would let them recover solid copper cheaply, and why?
- A. Displacement — because iron is more reactive than copper and will displace it from solution, and scrap iron is a low-cost material
- B. Electrolysis with a copper anode — because it recycles the scrap iron directly
- C. Thermal decomposition — because heating the leachate releases copper metal
- D. Fractional distillation — because copper has a distinct boiling point from iron