Electrolysis and reduced mass of a metal bar

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the electrolysis of a copper bar submerged in a hydrochloric acid and water solution, specifically addressing the observed weight loss of the copper bar and the underlying chemical processes involved.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant notes that the weight of the copper bar decreases from m to m_1 and seeks an explanation for this phenomenon, questioning the reaction of copper with HCl and water.
  • Another participant emphasizes that the question pertains to "electrolysis," suggesting that the initial reasoning may be misdirected towards dissolution rather than the electrolysis process.
  • A third participant reiterates the focus on electrolysis, expressing confusion about the weight loss of copper in the context of the electrolysis chapter.
  • A later reply suggests that reviewing the chapter on electrolysis may clarify the reactions occurring at the electrodes that contribute to the weight change.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not appear to reach a consensus, as there is confusion regarding the interpretation of the question and the processes involved. Multiple viewpoints are presented regarding the nature of the reactions taking place.

Contextual Notes

There are unresolved assumptions about the chemical behavior of copper in the given solution and the specific reactions during electrolysis that may affect the weight of the copper bar.

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1. Insert a bar of copper of m(gram) into (HCl + H2O). After a while, its weight become m_1 (gram) which is smaller than m. Explain why and give a general formula to find m_1



2. None



3. I keep thinking how that becomes possible, because I learn that Cu can't react with HCl+H2O
 
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Question states "electrolysis", you are thinking in terms of dissolution.
 
Borek said:
Question states "electrolysis", you are thinking in terms of dissolution.

my exercise is in Cu and Electrolysis chapter, I don't know how to explain why Cu's weight is lost over a short time.
 
Last edited:
Then read the chapter, it explains what reactions take place on the electrode during electrolysis.
 

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