During the electroytic refining of zinc, which of the following statement is true?

Options

A. The impure metal is at the cathode
B. Graphite is at the anode
C. The metal ions get reduced at anode
D. Acidified zinc sulphate is the electrolyte

Answer

To solve the question regarding the electrolytic refining of zinc, we will go through the process step-by-step and identify the correct statement.

### Step 1: Understand Electrolytic Refining
Electrolytic refining is a process used to purify metals. In the case of zinc, it involves the use of an electrolyte solution to separate pure zinc from impurities.

**Hint:** Remember that electrolytic refining involves using an electrolyte to separate pure metal from its impurities.

### Step 2: Identify the Electrolyte
For the electrolytic refining of zinc, the electrolyte used is typically an acidified solution of zinc sulfate (ZnSO₄). This solution allows for the electrolysis process to occur effectively.

**Hint:** Know the composition of the electrolyte used in the refining process.

### Step 3: Set Up the Electrolysis
In the electrolysis setup, the impure zinc acts as the anode, and a cathode is made of pure zinc or another conductive material. When electric current is passed through the solution, zinc ions from the electrolyte are reduced at the cathode, forming pure zinc.

**Hint:** Recall the roles of the anode and cathode in electrolysis: anode is where oxidation occurs, and cathode is where reduction occurs.

### Step 4: Analyze the Reactions
- At the **cathode**, zinc ions (Zn²⁺) gain electrons (reduction) and deposit as pure zinc metal.
- At the **anode**, the impure zinc oxidizes, releasing zinc ions into the solution, which contributes to the electrolyte.

**Hint:** Remember that reduction occurs at the cathode and oxidation occurs at the anode.

### Step 5: Evaluate the Statements
Now, we evaluate the statements provided in the question:
1. The impure metal is at the cathode. (False - pure zinc is deposited at the cathode)
2. The impure metal is at the anode. (True - the impure zinc is oxidized at the anode)
3. Metal, iron, and gate are reduced at the anode. (False - metals are oxidized at the anode)
4. Acidified zinc sulfate is the electrolyte. (True - this is the correct statement)

### Conclusion
The correct statement regarding the electrolytic refining of zinc is that **acidified zinc sulfate is the electrolyte**.

**Final Answer:** Acidified zinc sulfate is the electrolyte used in the electrolytic refining of zinc.