Anode - Definition and Overview

An anode (from the Greek άνοδος = 'going up') is the positive electrode in an electrolytic system or circuit. Literally, the path through which the electrons ascend out of an electrolyte solution.

In electrochemistry, the anode is where oxidation occurs and is also the negative discharge plate in an electrochemical cell. In charge mode the flow reverses and this plate becomes the cathode. In electronic circuits such as a cathode ray tube or a diode, the anode is the positive plate.

In solution negatively charged particles -Anions, flow to the anode. In tubes or circuits electrons flow to the anode.

The opposite of an anode is a cathode.

See also

• Battery
• Cathodic protection
• Galvanic cell
• Redox(oxidation-reduction)
• Electron tube
• Electrolysis