…plating

By Rocio SANCHEZ

Definition

The process used to cover zinc with copper in making coinage involves using direct-current (DC) electricity, which causes redox reactions to occur between metal and a metal ion solution. This general process is known as electroplating.

Basically it’s a thin coating on a material. The process involves placing the material to be coated in a solution containing ions of the metal and then passing an electric current through the system, which causes the ions to adhere to the material.

Application and ExamplesA bicycle’s metal parts have been powder-coated to resist corrosion.

Chrome plating can protect exposed steel surfaces.

Related to Class

Electroplating is related to compounds we studied this year like Cu coating. We also studied electrons. Electroplating requires a power source that supplies electrons to where the reduction occurs (cathode), though it does not create those electrons. Metal cations are reduced, removed from the solution, and deposited on the object attached to the cathode, metal atoms at the anode are oxidized and dissolve into the plating solution.