In electrolytic refining of a metal M, the anode is made of the impure metal M, the cathode is a thin strip of pure metal M, and the electrolyte is a solution of a soluble salt of metal M (e.g., M sulfate).
Here’s a more detailed explanation:
Anode:
The anode is made of the impure metal that needs to be refined. During electrolysis, the impure metal dissolves into the electrolyte as metal ions.
Cathode:
The cathode is a thin strip of the pure metal M. As the metal ions from the electrolyte reach the cathode, they gain electrons and deposit as pure metal on the cathode surface.Electrolyte:
The electrolyte is a solution of a soluble salt of the metal M. This salt provides the metal ions that will be deposited on the cathode.