Question

Assertion (A) : Highly reactive metals are obtained by electrolytic reduction. Reason (R) : In the electrolytic reduction, metal is deposited at the cathode.​

Answer 1

Assertion (A) is not entirely correct. Highly reactive metals are not typically obtained by electrolytic reduction. Instead, highly reactive metals are usually extracted from their ores through other processes such as chemical reduction, often with the use of reducing agents like carbon. Electrolytic reduction is commonly used for obtaining metals that are less reactive, typically those toward the middle and bottom of the reactivity series, where electrochemical reduction is a more favorable and energy-efficient process.

Reason (R) is accurate. In the process of electrolytic reduction, the metal is indeed deposited at the cathode. During this process, metal ions from a metal salt in a molten state or in solution migrate to the cathode (the negatively charged electrode), where they gain electrons and become solid metal. This is a fundamental principle in electrochemistry.

So, while Reason (R) is correct, Assertion (A) is not entirely accurate for highly reactive metals.

Answer 2

Both the assertion (A) and the reason (R) are true. The reason (R) provides a valid explanation for the assertion (A) in this case.

The given statement is true.

Assertion (A) states that highly reactive metals are obtained by electrolytic reduction.

Reason (R) states that in the electrolytic reduction process, the metal is deposited at the cathode.

Let's break this down step by step:

1. Electrolytic reduction: This is a process that involves using an electric current to bring about a chemical change. In the case of highly reactive metals, electrolytic reduction is a commonly used method to obtain them.

2. Cathode: In electrolysis, the cathode is the electrode where reduction (gain of electrons) occurs. When a metal ion is reduced at the cathode, it means that the metal is deposited or formed at the cathode.

3. Highly reactive metals: These are metals that readily react with other substances, such as oxygen or water. Examples of highly reactive metals include sodium, potassium, calcium, and magnesium.

So, the reason (R) correctly explains why highly reactive metals are obtained by electrolytic reduction. During the electrolysis process, the metal ions are reduced and deposited at the cathode.

Therefore, both the assertion (A) and the reason (R) are true. The reason (R) provides a valid explanation for the assertion (A) in this case.