Electroplating
The deposition of a thin metal coating onto a conducting surface by electrolysis.
Unit
g
In depth
The object to be coated is made the cathode in a solution containing ions of the plating metal, often with the pure metal as a sacrificial anode to maintain concentration. Coating thickness is controlled precisely through Faraday's laws, and additives are used to give a bright, even deposit.
Examples in the real world
Chromium plating on taps for corrosion resistance; gold plating on electrical connectors and jewellery.