Answer:
Step-by-step explanation:
Electroplating is the process of depositing a thin layer of one metal onto the surface of another metal or conductive material by means of an electrochemical reaction. In the case of silver electroplating, the following half reactions occur at the anode and cathode:
Anode (Oxidation): Ag(s) -> Ag+ (aq) + e-
Cathode (Reduction): Ag+ (aq) + e- -> Ag(s)
At the anode, silver atoms dissolve into the solution, releasing electrons and forming silver ions (Ag+). At the cathode, the silver ions gain electrons and precipitate out as solid silver atoms, which deposit onto the surface of the object being plated. This process continues until the desired thickness of silver has been deposited.
The anode and cathode are separated by a conductive material, typically an electrolyte solution, and a direct electrical current is applied to the system. The electrical current drives the reaction at the anode and cathode, with the electrons flowing from the anode to the cathode through the electrical circuit, allowing the silver ions to travel from the anode to the cathode, where they deposit as solid silver.