Question

Which process (oxidation/reduction) takes place at the anode of a galvanic cell?

Short answer

In a galvanic cell, the anode is the electrode where oxidation occurs. Thus, the process that takes place at the anode of a galvanic cell is oxidation.

Step-by-step solution

Understand Galvanic Cells

A galvanic cell, also known as a voltaic cell, converts chemical energy into electrical energy through redox reactions. It consists of two half-cells, each containing an electrode (anode or cathode) and an electrolyte. The two half-cells are connected through a salt bridge which allows the flow of ions between the half-cells.

Remember Redox Reactions

Redox reactions involve the transfer of electrons between species. In a redox reaction, one species undergoes oxidation (loses electrons) while the other undergoes reduction (gains electrons).

Identify Anode and Cathode

In a galvanic cell, the anode is the electrode where oxidation occurs, and the cathode is the electrode where reduction takes place. Electrons flow from the anode to the cathode through an external circuit, generating an electric current.

Determine the Process at the Anode

As we now know that oxidation occurs at the anode of a galvanic cell, we can conclude that the process taking place at the anode is oxidation.