Final answer:
In an electrolytic cell, you should stir the mixture with a non-reactive material like a glass rod to avoid chemical interference. The electrolytic process involves an external electrical source to drive reactions, such as silver plating utensils with a silver nitrate solution.
Step-by-step explanation:
When working with an electrolytic cell, it is crucial to mix the solution to ensure even distribution of ions around the electrodes. Typically, you would use a non-reactive material such as a glass rod or a magnetic stir bar to stir the mixture. This prevents any interference with the chemical reaction occurring within the cell. In the case of silver plating, using silver nitrate solution and applying a sufficient potential can cause the oxidation of the silver anode and the reduction of silver at the cathode, effectively depositing a layer of silver on the eating utensil.
Electrolytic cells require careful assembly, including the use of appropriate electrodes and an electrolyte to carry the electric current. Unlike a galvanic cell, which generates electricity from a spontaneous reaction, an electrolytic cell uses external electricity to drive a non-spontaneous reaction, as seen in applications such as silver plating, the purification of metals, and the production of elemental chlorine and sodium from molten NaCl.