Electrochemistry How can you tell if sulphuric acid cell is spent?

[Rreyes097]

I don't believe I've done all that much. But tonight it seemed to nit work, either it's spent, or my gold plated items aren't gold plated! ?

 

[nickvc]

The sulphuric should not deplete as it turns into persulphuric which dissolves the gold by the anode and then converts back to sulphuric once away from it dropping the gold as that fine powder in the bottom.
If you have left your cell uncovered or added water from rinses this might be your problem, concentrated sulphuric is very water thirsty and will draw water from the atmosphere so always cover the cell when not in use, also check your electrical contacts to make sure the current can flow.

 

[Rreyes097]

Thanks, that's the problem I left it uncovered. Does this mean I need to replace it? Or can it be fixed?

 

[Barren Realms 007]

You can evaporate the solution back down to remove the water. But be careful doing it and do not do it inside. The fumes can be very dangerous once you remove the excess water.

 

[nickvc]

Listen to Barrens advice...sulphuric is one nasty acid at high concentrations!
Played with it once to learn, never again, it works but has so many dangers and is not forgiving.