Define electroplating and write its main purpose .

Explanation

### Step-by-Step Text Solution:

1. **Definition of Electroplating**:
- Electroplating is a process that involves depositing a layer of one metal onto another metal using the technique of electrolysis. In this process, an electric current is passed through an electrolytic solution containing metal ions, which causes the metal ions to be reduced and deposited onto the surface of the object being plated.

2. **Process Explanation**:
- In an electrolytic cell, there are two electrodes: the anode (positive electrode) and the cathode (negative electrode). The object to be plated (for example, an iron spoon) is connected to the cathode. The electrolyte, which contains metal ions (like silver nitrate for silver plating), completes the circuit.
- When the electric current is turned on, oxidation occurs at the anode, where metal atoms lose electrons and form metal ions. At the cathode, reduction occurs, where metal ions from the electrolyte gain electrons and are deposited as a solid metal layer on the object.
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