Electrolytic cell is a type of electrochemical cell that uses electrical energy to drive a non-spontaneous chemical reaction. Unlike galvanic cells, which generate electricity through spontaneous reactions, electrolytic cells require an external power source, such as a battery or DC power supply, to operate. In this cell, two electrodes, an anode and a cathode, are placed in an electrolyte solution. When voltage is applied, electrons are pushed from the power source to the cathode, where reduction (gain of electrons) occurs, while oxidation (loss of electrons) takes place at the anode. This setup is commonly used in processes like electroplating, electrolysis of water, and the extraction of metals from ores. The direction of current in an electrolytic cell is opposite to that in a galvanic cell, and the anode is positively charged, while the cathode is negatively charged.
