JAMB Chemistry 1998 Question 22

Question 22

Electrolysis

1.2F of electricity are passed through electrolytic cells containing Na+, Cu2+ and Al3+ in series. How many moles of each metal would be formed at the cathode of each cell?

  1. A.0.6 mole of Na, 1.2 moles of Cu and 1.2 moles of Al
  2. B.1.2 moles of Na, 0.6 mole of Cu and 0.4 mole of Al
  3. C.1.2 moles of Na, 2.4 moles of Cu and 2.4 moles of Al
  4. D.1.2 moles of Na, 2.4 moles of Cu and 3.6 moles of Al.
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: B (1.2 moles of Na, 0.6 mole of Cu and 0.4 mole of Al)

Explanation

Moles of metal = faradays ÷ charge on the ion: Na 1.2/1 = 1.2, Cu 1.2/2 = 0.6, Al 1.2/3 = 0.4.