Here's why:

* Electroplating Process: Electroplating involves using an electric current to deposit a thin layer of a metal (in this case, silver) onto a substrate (in this case, iron).

* Oxidation and Reduction: The process involves two key reactions: oxidation and reduction.

* Oxidation: Loss of electrons.

* Reduction: Gain of electrons.

* Iron as the Anode: The iron object is connected to the positive terminal of the power source, making it the anode.

* Silver as the Cathode: The silver electrode is connected to the negative terminal, making it the cathode.

* Iron Oxidation: At the anode (iron), iron atoms lose electrons (oxidation) and become positively charged ions (Fe²⁺). These ions dissolve into the electrolyte solution.

* Silver Reduction: At the cathode (silver), silver ions (Ag⁺) from the electrolyte solution gain electrons (reduction) and deposit as solid silver onto the iron surface.

In summary: The iron is oxidized because it loses electrons, forming iron ions that dissolve into the solution. The silver ions in the solution gain electrons, becoming solid silver and plating onto the iron object.