Anode and Cathode in Electrolytic Cell
In electrolysis, the terms “anode” and “cathode” are used to describe the two electrodes immersed in an electrolyte, which is a solution that conducts electricity.
Cathode in Electrolysis
- Cathode is the Negative electrode in the electrolysis where reduction (gain of electrons) occurs.
- Electrons are supplied to the cathode from an external circuit, and positive ions from the electrolyte gain electrons to become neutral.
- In the process, metal ions may plate out onto the cathode or other reduction reactions may take place.
Anode in Electrolysis
- Anode is the Positive electrode in the electrolysis where oxidation (loss of electrons) occurs.
- Electrons are released at the anode and flow through the external circuit back to the cathode.
- At the anode, substances may lose electrons, forming positive ions or undergoing oxidation reactions.
Cathode and Anode
Cathode and Anode are commonly used terms in the context of electrochemistry, specifically in electrochemical cells like batteries and electrolytic cells. An anode is a negative or reducing electrode that releases electrons and oxidizes during an electrochemical reaction whereas a Cathode is a positive or oxidizing electrode.
In this article, we will learn about, Cathode, Anode, their differences, and others in detail.