Cathode
What Cathode means in Combined Science GCSE, as defined for AQA.
Definitions of Cathode
Exam boards and our study guides word this term in slightly different ways. Learn the version your board uses.
Check what you remember
Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain Cathode in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: AQA
The negative electrode, made negative by a direct current from a power supply, towards which positively charged ions move.
The negative electrode, where positive metal ions are attracted and the metal is produced.
The negative electrode where reduction occurs and where positive ions are discharged.
Topics that use Cathode
- Electrolysis of aqueous solutions (AQA GCSE)
- Electrolysis of molten ionic compounds (AQA GCSE)
- The process of electrolysis (AQA GCSE)
Related terms
- Anode
- Competing ions in aqueous electrolysis
- Competing ions in aqueous solutions
- Electrolysis
- Formation of useful by-products
- Half equation
- Hypothesis
- Inert electrodes and electrode products
Using Cathode in the exam
Check the command word and mark scheme for your exact question. After comparing your explanation with the reference, use the term in an answer on the linked topic. This practice does not predict an exam mark.
Practise Combined Science questions
Create a free account to answer exam-style questions on this topic and get feedback on your answers.
A week of Premium from your first lesson · Then the free plan continues · No card, no charge