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Chapter 3: Problem 4

What is a cathode?

Short Answer

Expert verified
A cathode is an electrode through which electric current flows out of a polarized electrical device. In an electrochemical cell, it's where reduction, or gain of electrons, occurs.

Step by step solution

01

Define the Cathode

A cathode is an electrode through which electric current flows out of a polarized electrical device.
02

Describe the Role of Cathode in an Electrochemical Cell

In an electrochemical cell, such as a battery, a cathode is the electrode where reduction takes place.
03

Discuss the Process It Involves

Reduction at the cathode involves gain of electrons, hence, cations or positive ions get attracted to the cathode.
04

Summarize

In summary, a cathode is an electrode where the electric current departs from an electrolytic system. In an electrochemical cell, the cathode is where reduction or the gain of electrons occurs.

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