Where do the electrons go after being released at the anode?

• A. Through the wire in the outer circuit from the anode to the cathode
• B. Through the electrolyte to the cathode
• C. Into the ion in the electrolyte
• D. They stay at the anode

Answer: (A)

When the substance at the anode is oxidized, electrons are produced and must leave the electrode to complete the circuit. They flow through the external wire from the anode to the cathode, where they are used to reduce species. The electrolyte itself conducts ions, not electrons, so the electrons don’t move through the liquid; instead ions move inside the electrolyte to balance charge. If electrons stayed at the anode or tried to move through the electrolyte, no current would flow.