Extraction of aluminium

Subject classification: this is a chemistry resource .

Definitions

• Cathode — Negative electrode
  • Positively charged ions (cations) collect at the cathode
• Anode — Positive electrode
  • Negatively charged ions (anions) collect at the anode

The extraction process

• Aluminium is extracted from its ore by electrolysis
• This takes place in an iron bath lined with graphite called a cell
• The graphite lining acts as the cathode
• A series of graphite blocks act as the anode(s)