What happens at the cathode in a galvanic cell?

At the cathode in a galvanic cell, reduction occurs, meaning that electrons from the external circuit are used to reduce positive ions in the electrolyte. For example, in a Daniel cell, copper ions (Cu2+\text{Cu}^{2+}Cu2+) gain electrons and are reduced to copper metal (Cu0\text{Cu}^0Cu0). Related Questions: Choose Arrhenius acids from the following compounds: HF, NH₃, H₂SO₄, … Read more

Why do electrodes get their names ‘anode’ and ‘cathode’ in a galvanic cell?

In a galvanic cell, the anode is where oxidation occurs and electrons are released. The cathode is where reduction takes place, and electrons are accepted. The names are derived from the Greek words “ana” (up) and “kathodos” (down), referring to the flow of current and electrons in the cell. Related Questions: Choose Arrhenius acids from … Read more