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, _______ is a strip of pure copper.

Options

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

Answer

To solve the question regarding the electrolytic refining of copper, we need to identify what is used as a strip of pure copper in the process. Here’s a step-by-step solution:

### Step 1: Understand the Process of Electrolytic Refining
Electrolytic refining is a method used to purify metals. In this process, an impure metal is used as the anode, and a pure metal strip is used as the cathode. The electrolyte is a solution containing the metal salt.

**Hint:** Remember that the anode is where oxidation occurs, and the cathode is where reduction takes place.

### Step 2: Identify the Components
In the electrolytic refining of copper:
- The **anode** is made of impure copper.
- The **cathode** is a thin strip of pure copper.
- The **electrolyte** is a solution of copper sulfate (CuSO₄).

**Hint:** Focus on the roles of the anode and cathode in the refining process.

### Step 3: Determine the Answer
The question specifically asks for what is used as a strip of pure copper during the electrolytic refining of copper. Based on our understanding, the cathode in this process is indeed a strip of pure copper.

**Hint:** Think about what material is needed to deposit pure copper during the refining process.

### Final Answer:
In electrolytic refining of copper, **the cathode is a strip of pure copper**.