When a metal is electroplated with silver (Ag)

Options

A. The metal is the anode
B. Ag metal is the cathode
C. The solution contains `Ag^(+)` ions
D. The reaction at the anode is `Ag^(+)+e^(-)rarrAg`

Answer

To solve the question regarding the electroplating of a metal with silver (Ag), we need to analyze the electrochemical processes involved. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of the solution:

### Step 1: Understand Electroplating
Electroplating is a process that uses electrical current to reduce dissolved metal cations so that they form a coherent metal coating on an electrode. In this case, we are electroplating a metal with silver.

**Hint:** Remember that electroplating involves two electrodes: the anode and the cathode.

### Step 2: Identify the Electrodes
In electroplating, the object to be plated (the metal) acts as the cathode, where reduction occurs. The source of silver ions (often a silver salt solution) acts as the anode.

**Hint:** The cathode is where the metal is deposited, while the anode is where oxidation occurs.

### Step 3: Determine the Reactions at the Electrodes
At the cathode (where the metal is being plated), the silver ions (Ag⁺) in solution gain electrons (reduction) to form solid silver (Ag). The reaction can be represented as:
\[ \text{Ag}^+ + e^- \rightarrow \text{Ag (s)} \]

At the anode, the metal (if it is silver) would oxidize to release silver ions:
\[ \text{Ag (s)} \rightarrow \text{Ag}^+ + e^- \]

**Hint:** Reduction occurs at the cathode, while oxidation occurs at the anode.

### Step 4: Evaluate the Given Statements
Now, we need to evaluate the statements provided in the question based on our understanding of the electroplating process:

1. **The metal is the anode.** - This is incorrect; the metal being plated is the cathode.
2. **Ag metal is the cathode.** - This is correct; during electroplating, silver ions are reduced at the cathode.
3. **The solution contains Ag⁺ ions.** - This is misleading; while Ag⁺ ions are present in the solution, the solid Ag is deposited on the cathode.
4. **Reaction at the anode is Ag⁺ + e⁻ → Ag.** - This is incorrect; the reaction at the anode involves oxidation, not reduction.

**Hint:** Carefully analyze each statement based on the reactions occurring at the electrodes.

### Conclusion
From the analysis, the correct statement is that "Ag metal is the cathode." Therefore, the answer is the second option.

**Final Answer:** The correct statement is: **Ag metal is the cathode.**