Anode - GCSE Chemistry Definition

An anode is a type of electrode found in electrochemical cells; it plays a critical role during electrolysis and other chemical reactions involving electricity.

In the context of GCSE Chemistry, the anode is the positively charged electrode where oxidation occurs. This means that it attracts anions (negatively charged ions) from the electrolyte, which lose electrons to the anode.

In a simple electrolysis setup, such as the electrolysis of brine (sodium chloride solution), the anode is where chlorine gas is produced. Understanding the function of the anode is essential for explaining how substances separate and react at different electrodes in an electrochemical cell.