Chemistry – Electrochemistry - Electrolysis | e-Consult

Electroplating is a process where a thin layer of metal is deposited onto a conductive object using electrolysis. The key components and their roles are:

• Electrolyte Solution: This is an aqueous solution containing ions of the metal to be deposited. For example, a solution of copper sulfate (CuSO₄) would be used to electroplate with copper ions.
• Anode: This is the object to be coated with the metal. It is connected to the positive terminal of a DC power supply. The anode dissolves, releasing metal ions into the electrolyte.
• Cathode: This is a conductive object (usually made of the metal being deposited) immersed in the electrolyte solution. It is connected to the negative terminal of the DC power supply. Metal ions from the electrolyte are attracted to the cathode and gain electrons, depositing as a thin layer of metal.
• DC Power Supply: Provides the electrical potential difference to drive the electrolytic reaction.

During electroplating, the anode dissolves, releasing metal ions into the electrolyte. These ions migrate towards the cathode, where they gain electrons and deposit as a metallic coating on the cathode's surface. The process continues until a sufficient thickness of metal has been deposited.