Which term denotes the part of an electrochemical cell that conducts the electric current between the cell and its surroundings?

• A. Electrodes
• B. Anode
• C. Electrolyte
• D. Half cell

Answer: (A)

Electrodes are the conducting interfaces that connect the electrochemical cell to the outside world. They are the surfaces through which electrons flow into or out of the cell, linking the internal chemistry to the external circuit. Inside the cell, the electrolyte carries ions to balance charge, but it does not carry electrons to the surroundings. The anode is a specific electrode where oxidation occurs, and a half-cell refers to one electrode plus its solution, not the external path. So the term that denotes the part conducting current between the cell and its surroundings is the electrodes.