Question

Why does a different reaction occur at anode when electrode isn't inert and has the same metal ion as present in electrolyte?
What will happen if the electrode isn't inert but is formed of a metal which is different than one present in electrolyte?

Answer 1

For example,
In electrolysis of AgNO3, when silver anode is used, instead of anion being liberated at anode (which happens in inert electrodes) we get a reaction which is very different.
Instead of
\[2O^-+2e^- -> O_2\]
We get
\[Ag~~ -> Ag^+ + e^-\]

My question is why does the second reaction instead of the usual first reaction occurs, and which reaction will occur if the anode is copper?

Answer 2

@IrishBoy123 @aaronq

Answer 3

It's related to their individual reduction potentials, Ag is oxidized at a lower potential than \(O^-\) can pick up an electron.

Following the same logic, you would get Cu metal dissolving into solution if it was used as the anode electrode.

Answer 4

Wait..
Cu reaction is at anode?
Can it? or maybe I don't understand your question.

Answer 5

@FaiqRaees

Answer 6

Yes at anode

Answer 7

can you write the equation?