In a galvanic cell, the cathode is the site of which process?

In a galvanic cell, the cathode is the site of which process?

• A. Reduction
• B. Oxidation
• C. Ionization
• D. Precipitation

Answer: (A)

Reduction occurs at the cathode in a galvanic cell. The electrode at the cathode accepts electrons coming from the external circuit, so the species there gains electrons and is reduced. This electron flow comes from the anode, where oxidation takes place, releasing electrons that travel to the cathode. A classic example is the Daniell cell: zinc is oxidized at the anode to Zn2+, sending electrons to the cathode where Cu2+ ions gain those electrons to form copper metal. Ionization is not what happens at the cathode in this context, and precipitation is not the defining process at the cathode, though it can occur under some conditions.

Reduction occurs at the cathode in a galvanic cell. The electrode at the cathode accepts electrons coming from the external circuit, so the species there gains electrons and is reduced. This electron flow comes from the anode, where oxidation takes place, releasing electrons that travel to the cathode. A classic example is the Daniell cell: zinc is oxidized at the anode to Zn2+, sending electrons to the cathode where Cu2+ ions gain those electrons to form copper metal. Ionization is not what happens at the cathode in this context, and precipitation is not the defining process at the cathode, though it can occur under some conditions.