Oxidation of copper anode in electrolysis

Steps:

• Anode undergoes oxidation, releasing electrons.
• Pure copper electrodes mean the copper anode dissolves, forming Cu²⁺ ions.
• Solution contains Cu²⁺ and Ag⁺, but no silver metal for oxidation.
• Nitrate ions do not oxidize preferentially over the copper electrode.

Why A is correct:

• Represents oxidation of Cu atoms from the anode to Cu²⁺ ions, following the standard half-equation for copper electrode dissolution.

Why the others are wrong:

• B: Describes reduction of Cu²⁺ to Cu, which occurs at the cathode.
• C: Oxidation of Ag to Ag⁺, but no silver metal is present in the setup.
• D: Reduction of Ag⁺ to Ag, a cathode reaction.

Final answer: A