Question

An electrolytic cell contains:
(i) Positively charged cathode
(ii) Negatively charged anode
(iii) Positively charged anode
(iv) Negatively charged cathode

A. (i) and (ii)
B. (iii) and (iv)
C. (i) and (iii)
D. (ii) and (iv)

Answer 1

Hint: A typical electrolytic cell consists of two metallic electrodes held apart from each other and in contact with an electrolyte. Of the electrodes, one is positive and the other negative. We can analyze from the flow of electrons, which electrode is negative and which is positive.

Complete Solution :
Electrolytic cell is a device in which electrical energy is converted into chemical energy, resulting in a chemical reaction.
- In an electrolytic cell, the electricity is passed by connecting the two electrodes to the terminal of a battery- an external source of power, the electrodes in turn are dipped in the solution of an electrolyte. Due to the electrical potential difference applied across the electrodes, the current is carried by the connecting wires to the metal electrodes by electrons, while though the electrolyte it is carried by the ions.
- The electrode connected to the negative terminal of the battery is called the cathode and the electrons enter into it from the battery. The electrode connected to the positive terminal of the battery is called the anode and the electrons are taken out of it by the battery.
Hence, an electrolytic cell contains positively charged anode and negatively charged cathode.
So, the correct answer is “Option B”.

Note: When electric current is passed through the electrolyte, positive ions in the electrolyte migrate to the negative electrode or cathode and they combine with one or more electrons. At the same time, negative ions migrate to positive electrodes or anode and transfer one or more electrons to it.
- The overall effect of the two processes is the transfer of electrons from the negative ions to the positive ions or a chemical reaction.
- Anode attracts negative ions (or anions) while cathode attracts positive ions (or cations).
One should be very dear and should not get confused in the terms: anode, cathode, anions, cations etc.