In electrolysis, which process occurs at the cathode?

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Multiple Choice

In electrolysis, which process occurs at the cathode?

Explanation:
Reduction occurs at the cathode in electrolysis. The external power source pushes electrons to the cathode, allowing cations in the electrolyte to gain electrons and become neutral species. For example, Na+ can gain an electron to form metallic sodium in molten NaCl, or hydrogen ions can gain electrons to form H2 in aqueous solutions. This is the opposite process at the anode, where oxidation (loss of electrons) occurs. Combustion is a rapid oxidation with oxygen, and ionization is the formation of ions from neutral atoms, not the electrode-specific half-reaction that happens at the cathode.

Reduction occurs at the cathode in electrolysis. The external power source pushes electrons to the cathode, allowing cations in the electrolyte to gain electrons and become neutral species. For example, Na+ can gain an electron to form metallic sodium in molten NaCl, or hydrogen ions can gain electrons to form H2 in aqueous solutions. This is the opposite process at the anode, where oxidation (loss of electrons) occurs. Combustion is a rapid oxidation with oxygen, and ionization is the formation of ions from neutral atoms, not the electrode-specific half-reaction that happens at the cathode.

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