When current is on, which ion is attracted to the anode?

• A. Negative ions
• B. Positive ions
• C. Neutral molecules
• D. Electrons

Answer: (A)

In an electrolytic cell with current flowing, the anode is positively charged and attracts negatively charged ions (anions) in the solution. These anions move toward the anode and are discharged there, losing electrons. Positive ions would move toward the cathode, not the anode, neutral molecules aren’t drawn by charge, and electrons aren’t the species moving toward the anode inside the solution (they travel through the external circuit). So the ion attracted to the anode is negative ions.