* Electrolysis Basics: In electrolysis, an electric current is passed through a solution containing ions. This forces a chemical reaction, in this case, the reduction of copper ions (Cu²⁺) to metallic copper (Cu) at the cathode.
* Concentration and Current: The rate of copper deposition depends on the concentration of copper ions in the solution. Higher concentrations mean more copper ions available to be reduced, leading to a faster deposition rate.
* Dilution Effect: A dilute solution has a lower concentration of copper ions. This means:
* Fewer ions available: There are fewer copper ions present for the electric current to act upon.
* Reduced current flow: The overall resistance of the solution increases with dilution, leading to a lower current flow.
In summary: A more dilute solution will deposit *less* copper because there are fewer copper ions available for reduction, and the current flow is reduced.