Question

how is the operation of the electrolytic cell explained as a redox reaction?

Answer 1

[AI-generated answer — Bot GPT 3.5]

In an electrolytic cell, the process of electrolysis involves a redox reaction taking place.

At the anode (positive electrode), oxidation occurs as electrons are lost. The metal or ion at the anode is oxidized and releases electrons, leading to a loss of electrons by the anode. This occurs due to the flow of electric current from the external power source, causing the anode to become positively charged.

At the cathode (negative electrode), reduction occurs as electrons are gained. The metal or ion at the cathode is reduced and accepts electrons, leading to a gain of electrons by the cathode. This occurs due to the flow of electric current from the external power source, causing the cathode to become negatively charged.

Overall, the redox reaction in an electrolytic cell involves the transfer of electrons from the anode to the cathode through the external power source. This process allows for the separation of ions in the electrolyte solution and the deposition of metals onto the cathode, resulting in the desired chemical reactions taking place.