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Two Types of Electrochemical Cells
There are two types of electrochemical cells: galvanic and electrolytic. The galvanic cell an electric current is generated by a reaction between chemicals. In an electrolytic cell, an electric current is applied to create a chemical reaction.
Parts of an Electrolytic Cells
In an electrical cell electrical energy is converted to chemical energy. This is known as electrolysis. The parts of an electrolytic cell include:
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Anode: positively charged electrode
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Cathode: negatively charged electrode
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Electrolyte solution: solution with solvated ions which conduct electricity
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Electrical current source: this provides the electrical current to drive the chemical reaction. A battery is a typical source because it uses direct current. Direct current moves one direction from negative to positive.
How Does It Work?
The electrolyte solution is added a beaker or other glass container. Two electrodes are added to the solution apart from each other, not touching. The anode is connected to the positive side of the battery and the cathode to the negative side (in a galvanic cell, this is reversed). The electric current or electrons will start at the negative side of the battery and move to the cathode. At the cathode reduction can occur where ions or atoms gain electrons. The current continues to move through the electrolyte to the anode. At the anode oxidation can occur or the loss of electrons. At the anode the current travel back up to the positive side of the battery, completing the circuit.
