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Electrochemistry & Redox

Anode

The electrode at which oxidation occurs.

Unit Dimensionless

In depth

The anode is negative in a galvanic cell, where electrons are released spontaneously into the external circuit, but positive in an electrolytic cell, where it is connected to the supply's positive terminal. In both cases anions migrate towards it, which is the origin of their name.

Examples in the real world

The zinc case of a dry cell; the graphite anodes consumed as CO₂ during aluminium electrolysis.