In the electrolysis of copper chloride, where does the pure copper metal deposit?

Options

A. Anode
B. Cathode
C. Positive terminal of the battery
D. Negative terminal of the battery

Answer

To solve the question of where pure copper metal deposits during the electrolysis of copper chloride, we can break it down into clear steps:

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding Electrolysis**: Electrolysis is a process that uses electrical energy to cause a chemical change, typically to separate elements from their compounds. In this case, we are dealing with copper chloride (CuCl2).

2. **Setting Up the Apparatus**: In an electrolysis setup, we have a beaker filled with a copper chloride solution. Two electrodes are placed in this solution, which are connected to a power source.

3. **Identifying the Electrodes**: The electrode connected to the negative terminal of the battery is called the cathode, while the electrode connected to the positive terminal is called the anode.

4. **Dissociation of Copper Chloride**: When the electric current passes through the solution, the copper chloride dissociates into its ions: copper ions (Cu²⁺) and chloride ions (Cl⁻).

5. **Movement of Ions**: The positively charged copper ions (Cu²⁺) move towards the cathode (negative electrode), while the negatively charged chloride ions (Cl⁻) move towards the anode (positive electrode).

6. **Deposition of Copper**: At the cathode, the copper ions gain electrons (reduction) and are converted into pure copper metal, which deposits on the cathode.

7. **Release of Chlorine Gas**: At the anode, the chloride ions lose electrons (oxidation) and form chlorine gas, which bubbles off.

8. **Conclusion**: Therefore, during the electrolysis of copper chloride, pure copper metal deposits at the cathode.

### Final Answer:
The pure copper metal deposits at the **cathode**.

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