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Chapter 22: Q22.28P (page 1018)

Why is cryolite used in the electrolysis of aluminum oxide?

Short Answer

Expert verified

Cryolite( Na3AlF6) is used in the electrolysis of aluminum oxide because cryolite helps to extract aluminum profitably.

Step by step solution

01

Cryolite

The compound cryolite is sodium aliminium fluoride (Na3AlF6). It is added to bauxite in aluminum smelting.

02

Explanation

- The high melting point of aluminum oxide is 2030°C. The Hall-Héroult process makes

it difficult to refine aluminum.

- When cryolite is added, the melting point of the mixture becomes 1000°C.

- Cryolite can also act as a solvent. It increases the conductivity of the solution of molten

bauxite.

-Therefore, cryolite helps to extract aluminum profitably.

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