However, it can also be positive similar to the case of a galvanic cell where the chemical reaction tends to the generation of electrical energy. Here, the cathode is negative due to the electrical energy that is supplied to the cell, which results in the decomposition of chemical compounds. In an electrochemical cell, this is common.

When we speak about the cathode in chemistry, it is said to be the electrode where the reduction takes place. The pictorial representation of both cathode and anode is given below. He adapted the words from the Greek word (named, kathodos), 'way down' or 'descent.' William had consulted with Michael Faraday in coining the terms. The terms Cathode and Anode were finalized in 1834 by William Whewell. In the same way, an anode can be described as an electrode from which the current enters into the polarized electrical device. A cathode is an electrode from which the current exits a polarized electrical device. Both these terms can be defined by the flow of current. Let us discuss what cathode and anode exactly mean. Electrodes consist of two major points called cathode and anode, which describe the direction of the flow of current. In other words, an electrode can be defined as a conductor that helps to establish electrical contact with a non-metallic part of the circuit. According to the general definition, an electrode is a substance that helps in electricity conduction wherein the electric current either leaves or enters the non-metallic medium such as an electrolytic cell. Before we learn about the terms cathode and anode, it is important to understand what an electrode is.

Cathode negative or positive