The process of depositing a metal onto an object by passing a current through a solution containing metal ions is known as which term?

• A. Reduction potential
• B. Dynamic potential
• C. Salt bridge
• D. Electroplating

Answer: (D)

Electroplating is the deposition of a metal onto an object by passing an electric current through a solution containing metal ions. In this process, the object to be plated serves as the cathode, where the metal ions in the solution gain electrons and reduce to solid metal that coats the surface. The source metal can dissolve at the anode to replenish ions in solution, and the external power supply drives the non-spontaneous redox reaction, making this a form of electrolysis. This distinguishes electroplating from other ideas like reduction potential, which describes a tendency to gain electrons rather than an actual coating process, or a salt bridge, which is just a component that completes the circuit in some electrochemical cells.