Most electropositive metals are obtained by electrolysis of their fused ionic salts.

The process of isolating the most electropositive metals from their ores is achieved through the electrolysis of fused ionic salts.

Explanation:

Electropositive metals are those metals that have a strong tendency to lose electrons and form positive ions. These metals include alkali metals such as sodium and potassium, as well as alkaline earth metals like calcium and magnesium. These metals are highly reactive and are often found in nature as compounds or ores.

To isolate these metals, various methods are used depending on their reactivity and the nature of the ore. However, the most effective method for isolating the most electropositive metals is through the process of electrolysis of fused ionic salts.

Electrolysis of Fused Ionic Salts:

The electrolysis of fused ionic salts involves the use of a molten salt or an ionic compound in its liquid state as the electrolyte. The most commonly used electrolyte is a mixture of sodium chloride and calcium chloride.

The process involves the following steps:

1. Preparation of the electrolyte: The ionic salt is heated to a high temperature until it melts and forms a liquid electrolyte. This molten electrolyte allows the movement of ions and facilitates the process of electrolysis.

2. Setting up the electrolytic cell: The electrolytic cell consists of two electrodes - a cathode (negative electrode) and an anode (positive electrode) - along with the molten electrolyte. The electrodes are typically made of inert materials such as graphite.

3. Electrolysis: When an electric current is passed through the molten electrolyte, the positive ions migrate towards the cathode, while the negative ions migrate towards the anode. At the cathode, the most electropositive metal ions are reduced and deposited as pure metal. At the anode, chloride ions are oxidized to form chlorine gas.

4. Collection of the metal: The metal deposited at the cathode can be collected and further processed to obtain the pure metal.

By using the electrolysis of fused ionic salts, the most electropositive metals can be isolated from their ores with high purity. This method is preferred for highly reactive metals due to their strong tendency to form stable ionic compounds.