Chemistry - Electrochemistry Question with Solution | TestHub

The electrolysis of aqueous cupric bromide (CuBr₂) involves competition at the cathode. Cu²⁺ ions and H₂O molecules (which can produce H⁺) are present. Since copper is less reactive than hydrogen, Cu²⁺ has a higher reduction potential than H⁺ from water. Therefore, Cu²⁺ ions will be preferentially reduced at the cathode to form copper metal.

Cathode reaction: $C{u}^{2+}(aq)+2e^{-}\to Cu(s)$