Anode

The anode is the positive pole in an electrolyte. It absorbs electrons, i.e. an oxidation reaction takes place at it. The anode is the counter electrode of the cathode. In the electroplating technique, metal is dissolved in most baths, which serves as a subsequent supply of the metal ions.

Examples:

Nickel Electrolyte – Nickel Anode – Ni – 2e- → Ni²⁺
Copper electrolyte – Copper anode – Cu – 2e- → Cu²⁺

In some electrolytes, e.g. in chromium electrolytes, insoluble anodes are used because the metal used for the subsequent delivery cannot be dissolved anodically, the anode would passivate or, in the case of alloys, the balance of the different metal ions cannot be kept constant by the subsequent anodic delivery.

It should be noted that the above explanations on the definition of the anode apply to galvanic cells or electrical loads. Other definitions apply to voltage sources.