Electrolysis to extract metals (Edexcel GCSE Chemistry): Flashcards

Electrolysis

Bauxite

$Al_2O_3$ (aluminium oxide)

Cryolite

Lowers the melting point

Graphite electrodes

$Al^{3+}$ (aluminium ions)

Gain electrons (reduction)

$Al^{3+} + 3e^- \rightarrow Al(l)$

Denser than surrounding mixture

$O^{2-}$ (oxide ions)

Lose electrons (oxidation)

$2O^{2-} \rightarrow O_2(g) + 4e^-$

Carbon (in graphite anode)

Carbon dioxide ($CO_2$)