Re: [Phys-l] anode and cathode

[John Denker <jsd@av8n.com>]

On 12/05/2006 07:46 AM, carmelo@pacific.net.sg wrote:

> > The definition of anode and cathode is consistent across all of chemistry and physics. 
> > http://www.av8n.com/physics/anode-cathode.htm
>
>
> Not quite true. One dictionary of science(Penguin?) gives different definitions for both
> electrolytic and electrochemical cells...
>
> In electrolytic cell, the cathode is the electrode where the negative polarity is applied to
> drive the cell... (-ve) In electrochemical cell, the cathode is the electrode at which reduction
> occurs... (+ve)

Please pay attention.

The definition of anode and cathode *is* consistent across all of chemistry
and physics.  If you had bothered to look at the cited reference
   http://www.av8n.com/physics/anode-cathode.htm
you would know that the Penguin "definition", while unnecessarily complicated,
is *not* an exception to the rule.