In the context of electrolytes and electrochemical cells, which of the following best describes a cathode?

• A. The electrode at which oxidation occurs.
• B. The electrode that always has a positive charge.
• C. The electrode at which reduction occurs.
• D. The electrode where electrons are released into the solution.

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the basic definitions of electrodes in electrochemical cells: the cathode and the anode.
2. Recall that oxidation is the loss of electrons, and reduction is the gain of electrons.
3. Identify that the cathode is the electrode where reduction occurs, meaning it gains electrons.
4. Note that the charge of the cathode can vary depending on the type of cell (galvanic or electrolytic), so it is not always positive.
5. Conclude that the best description of a cathode is 'the electrode at which reduction occurs.'