During extraction of metals, electrolytic refining is used to obtain pure metals. During the process, the impure metal is made the anode and a thin strip of pure metal is made the cathode. The solution of the metal salt is used as an electrolyte. On passing the current through the electrolyte, the pure metal from the anode dissolves from the electrolyte. An equivalent of pure metal from the electrolyte is deposited on the cathode.
In electrolytic refining of copper, ______ act as impure copper.

Options

A. anode
B. cathode
C. both anode and cathode
D. none of the above

Answer

To answer the question regarding the electrolytic refining of copper, we can follow these steps:

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding Electrolytic Refining**:
- Electrolytic refining is a method used to purify metals. It involves the use of an electrolyte solution, an anode, and a cathode.

2. **Identifying the Components**:
- In this process:
- The **anode** is where the impure metal is placed.
- The **cathode** is a thin strip of pure metal that is being refined.
- The **electrolyte** is a solution containing metal salts.

3. **Process of Electrolytic Refining**:
- When electric current is passed through the electrolyte:
- The impure metal at the anode dissolves into the electrolyte.
- An equivalent amount of pure metal is deposited on the cathode.

4. **Specific Case of Copper**:
- In the case of copper refining, the question asks specifically about what acts as impure copper.
- Since the anode is where the impure metal is located, in the electrolytic refining of copper, the anode will be made of impure copper.

5. **Final Answer**:
- Therefore, during the electrolytic refining of copper, **the anode acts as impure copper**.