Electrolytic Cell
An electrolytic cell is an electrochemical cell that uses an external battery or power source to drive a non-spontaneous redox reaction. In this type of cell, electrical energy is converted into chemical energy.
Construction
An electrolytic cell consists of two electrodes (anode and cathode) immersed in an electrolyte solution. The anode is the electrode where oxidation occurs, and the cathode is the electrode where reduction occurs. The electrolyte solution contains the ions that are involved in the redox reaction. The anode and cathode are connected to an external power source or battery, which drives the non-spontaneous reaction.
Anode
The anode is the electrode where oxidation occurs. It is usually made of the substance that is being oxidized. As a result, the anode loses electrons and becomes positively charged. The positive ions produced during the oxidation process are released into the electrolyte solution.
Cathode
The cathode is the electrode where reduction occurs. It is usually made of the substance that is being reduced. As a result, the cathode gains electrons and becomes negatively charged. The negative ions produced during the reduction process are attracted to the cathode and are pulled out of the electrolyte solution.
Electrolyte Solution
The electrolyte solution contains the ions that are involved in the redox reaction. The anions (negatively charged ions) are attracted to the anode, while the cations (positively charged ions) are attracted to the cathode. As the reaction proceeds, the concentration of ions in the electrolyte solution changes.
External Power Source
The external power source or battery is used to drive the non-spontaneous reaction. It provides the necessary electrical energy to the cell to overcome the energy barrier of the reaction. The battery is connected to the anode and cathode by wires, which allow the electrons to flow between the electrodes.
