ca
thode
Plural
cathodes
1
a negatively charged electrode within an electrical device, from which electrons flow out into the external circuit
- The cathode of the battery supplies electrons to the external circuit when the device is in use.
- In a vacuum tube, the cathode emits electrons when heated, enabling the device to function as an amplifier or oscillator.
- Electrons are emitted from the cathode of the X-ray tube, producing the electron beam necessary for generating X-rays.
- The cathode ray tube in old-fashioned televisions emits electrons, which are then directed onto the screen to produce images.
- In a rechargeable battery, such as a lithium-ion battery, the cathode undergoes reduction during charging, allowing it to store energy for later use.
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2
the positively charged terminal of a voltaic cell or storage battery that supplies current
Antonyms: