Which term describes the positively charged electrode?

Which term describes the positively charged electrode?

• A. Anode
• B. Cathode
• C. Anion
• D. Electrode

Answer: (A)

Oxidation takes place at the positively charged electrode. In electrolysis, the external power source drives electrons out of the anode, making it the positive electrode. That’s why the term used for the positively charged electrode is the anode. The anode is the site where electrons are released, and anions move toward it to balance charge as oxidation occurs. The other electrode is the cathode, where reduction happens. (Note: in galvanic cells the anode is negative, but in an electrolytic setup the anode is positive.)

Oxidation takes place at the positively charged electrode. In electrolysis, the external power source drives electrons out of the anode, making it the positive electrode. That’s why the term used for the positively charged electrode is the anode. The anode is the site where electrons are released, and anions move toward it to balance charge as oxidation occurs. The other electrode is the cathode, where reduction happens. (Note: in galvanic cells the anode is negative, but in an electrolytic setup the anode is positive.)