Nickel and Chrome plate. Image credit 1911forum.com

Nickel and Chrome plate. Image credit 1911forum.com

ZIMSEC O Level Combined Science Notes: Experiment Chrome plating a nickel cathode

Aim: To chrome plate a nickel cathode

Materials: nickel-plated  electrode, lead electrode, beaker, chromic acid

Method

  1. Set up an electrolytic cell using a nickel plated cathode from this experiment
  2. Place 200cm3 of chromic acid solution in a beaker
  3. Warm it up to 40°C
  4. Pass a current through the solution for about 20 minutes
  5. Switch off the current and disconnect the cathode

Observations and results

  • The nickel plated cathode is covered by chrome and achieves a glossy finish
  • It does adhere well even during polishing
  • Chrome shines more than nickel

To access more topics go to the Combined Science Notes page.