How To Extract Aluminium By Electrolysis

The video explains the process of extracting aluminum using electrolysis. Aluminum is extracted from bauxite, which is purified to yield aluminum oxide. Due to its high melting point, aluminum oxide is dissolved in cryolite to lower the melting point, making the process more cost-effective. The electrolysis process involves graphite electrodes, where aluminum forms at the cathode and oxygen forms at the anode, reacting with carbon to produce carbon dioxide. This reaction causes the anode to wear away, necessitating regular replacement. The process is energy-intensive, contributing to its high cost.

What happens to the positive anode during the electrolysis process?

Discuss the reasons why aluminum extraction is considered expensive.