Cathode in electrolysis is:

## The reasoning In **electrolysis**, we're forcing a non-spontaneous chemical reaction to happen by pushing electric current through a solution. Think of the power source (battery) driving everything. The **cathode** is the electrode connected to the **negative terminal** of the battery. Because it's negative, it attracts positive ions (cations) from the solution. When these positive ions reach the cathode, they gain electrons and get *reduced*. Remember: **"Reduction happens at the cathode"** — and reduction means gaining electrons, which makes perfect sense at the *negative* electrode where electrons are abundant. --- ## Why the wrong options tempt you **A) Positive** — This confuses electrolysis with galvanic cells (batteries). In batteries, the cathode *is* positive, but electrolysis reverses the natural flow. **C) Inert** — You're mixing up electrode *material* (which can be inert like platinum) with electrode *charge*. **D) Salt bridge** — That's from voltaic cells, not electrolysis setups. --- ## Quick takeaway **In electrolysis, cathode = negative = reduction zone.** The battery *pushes* electrons there, making it negatively charged and the perfect spot for positive ions to grab electrons.