In an electrochemical cell, which electrode is the site of oxidation?

• A. Anode
• B. Cathode
• C. Electrolyte
• D. Salt bridge

Answer: (A)

Oxidation occurs at the anode—the electrode where atoms lose electrons, which then flow through the external circuit toward the other electrode. The electrons moving away means the anode is the site of oxidation, while the cathode is where reduction happens. The electrolyte and the salt bridge aren’t the sites of oxidation; they’re the ion-containing medium and the ion-transport link that keep charge balance as the redox reactions occur at the electrodes.