The anode mud in the electrolytic refining of silver contains :

Options

A. Zn, Cu, Ag, Au
B. Zn, Ag, Au
C. Cu, Ag, Au
D. Au only

Explanation

To solve the question regarding the composition of anode mud in the electrolytic refining of silver, we can break it down into the following steps:

### Step 1: Understanding Electrolytic Refining
Electrolytic refining is a process used to purify metals. In this process, an impure metal (in this case, silver) is used as the anode, and a pure metal is used as the cathode. The electrolyte contains a soluble salt of the metal being refined.

**Hint:** Remember that during electrolytic refining, impurities are left behind at the anode.

### Step 2: Identifying the Anode Mud
The term "anode mud" refers to the residue that accumulates at the bottom of the electrolytic cell after the refining process. This residue consists of metals that do not dissolve in the electrolyte and are less reactive than the metal being refined.

**Hint:** Consider the reactivity series of metals to determine which metals will remain in the anode mud.

### Step 3: Analyzing the Composition of Anode Mud
In the case of silver refining, the anode mud will contain metals that are less reactive than silver. Gold (Au) is one such metal. Since gold is less reactive than silver, it will not dissolve into the electrolyte and will remain in the anode mud.

**Hint:** Think about which metals are commonly found alongside silver in ores and their reactivity compared to silver.

### Step 4: Conclusion
Thus, the anode mud in the electrolytic refining of silver primarily contains gold (Au) and possibly other less reactive metals, while more reactive metals will dissolve into the electrolyte.

**Final Answer:** The anode mud in the electrolytic refining of silver contains gold (Au).