Electroplating

Definition

Electroplating is a process that uses electrical current to deposit a thin layer of metal onto the surface of another material. It is commonly used for improving corrosion resistance, enhancing appearance, and reducing friction.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Electroplating involves an electrolyte solution containing metal ions that are reduced and deposited on the cathode.
2. The object to be plated serves as the cathode, and a bar of the plating metal serves as the anode.
3. Reduction reactions occur at the cathode, while oxidation reactions occur at the anode during electroplating.
4. Faraday's laws of electrolysis can be used to calculate the amount of substance deposited during electroplating.
5. Common metals used in electroplating include gold, silver, nickel, copper, and chromium.

Review Questions

Related terms

Electrolysis:

A chemical process that uses electrical current to drive a non-spontaneous reaction.

Anode:

The electrode where oxidation occurs during an electrochemical reaction.

Cathode:

The electrode where reduction occurs during an electrochemical reaction.