What is the general role of the anode in electrolysis?

• A. Where oxidation occurs
• B. Where reduction occurs
• C. Where ions are formed
• D. Where electrons are stored

Answer: (A)

Oxidation happens at the anode in electrolysis. This means the species at the anode lose electrons to the external circuit, and those electrons travel away from the electrode through the power supply to the other electrode. That’s why the anode is the site where oxidation occurs. The opposite electrode is where reduction happens, so it’s the cathode. The idea that the electrode stores electrons isn’t how electrolysis works—electrons flow in the circuit rather than being stored at the electrode.