Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
The cathode is the electrode where reduction occurs in an electrochemical cell. It is the positive terminal in a galvanic cell.
5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test
In a galvanic cell, the cathode is the site of reduction reactions.
Electrons flow toward the cathode from the anode.
The cathode is typically marked as the positive terminal in a galvanic cell.
Reduction at the cathode means that a species gains electrons.
Common examples of reduction reactions at the cathode include $\text{Cu}^{2+} + 2e^{-} \rightarrow \text{Cu}$ and $\text{Ag}^{+} + e^{-} \rightarrow \text{Ag}$.