Meaning & Definition of word "Cathode"

Cathode

/ˈkæθoʊd/

1. The electrode in a device, such as a vacuum tube or an electrolytic cell, through which electric current flows out of the device.
- Example: In the experiment, the cathode was connected to the negative terminal of the power supply.
2. The negative electrode in an electrolytic cell, where reduction occurs.
- Example: During the electrolysis process, chlorine gas is evolved at the anode while hydrogen is produced at the cathode.
3. The electrode in a cathodic protection system that provides a reduction reaction to protect against corrosion.
- Example: The installation of a sacrificial anode in the cathode protection system effectively reduced the corrosion rate of the metal structure.
4. In a battery, the electrode that discharges electricity (negative terminal).
- Example: When the battery is used, the cathode undergoes a chemical reaction that allows it to release electrons.

From the Greek 'kathodos', meaning 'way down'.

cathodic protection:

A technique to prevent corrosion of metal surfaces by making them the cathode of an electrochemical cell.

cathodic polarization:

The shifting of the electrode potential of a cathode to reduce corrosion.

cathode ray:

A stream of electrons observed in vacuum tubes.

anode:

The electrode in a cell where oxidation occurs.

electrolyte:

A substance that produces an electrically conducting solution when dissolved.

reduction:

The gain of electrons or decrease in oxidation state by a molecule, atom, or ion.

Meaning: Negative side of a device.

Example Sentence: That battery has a weak cathode, so it doesn't hold a charge well.

Meaning: The part of a circuit where the action happens.

Example Sentence: In that gadget, the cathode takes care of all the fun.