What is the name of the negative electrode in a voltaic cell?

• A. Cathode
• B. Anode
• C. Electrolyte
• D. Terminal

Answer: (B)

In a voltaic cell, the negative electrode is called the anode. This is the site where oxidation occurs, meaning that electrons are released from the material. These freed electrons then travel through the external circuit to the positive electrode, known as the cathode, where reduction takes place. The flow of electrons from the anode to the cathode generates electric current.

Understanding the roles of the electrodes is crucial: the anode continuously produces electrons due to the oxidation of the material, whereas the cathode consumes those electrons during the reduction reaction. This relationship between the two electrodes facilitates the flow of electric current, which is the fundamental principle behind how a voltaic cell operates.