What is the function of a cathode in an electrochemical cell?

In an electrochemical cell, the function of the cathode is specifically to serve as the site where reduction occurs. This means that at the cathode, electrons are gained by the chemical species involved in the reaction, leading to a decrease in oxidation state. This process is crucial for the overall functioning of the electrochemical cell because it facilitates the flow of electricity by allowing charge transfer to occur.

The cathode is essential in applications such as batteries and electrolysis, where it participates actively in chemical reactions that convert chemical energy into electrical energy or vice versa. Understanding that the cathode is where the reduction reaction takes place distinguishes it from the anode, where oxidation occurs. It is this fundamental role in the reduction process that emphasizes the importance of the cathode in maintaining the balance of the electrochemical reactions taking place within the cell.