From the statements given below, choose the correct statement regarding the galvanic cell.
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 4
The correct answer is Option (4) → Reduction occurs at cathode.
In every electrochemical cell the electrodes are named by the reaction at them: the anode is where oxidation takes place and the cathode is where reduction takes place. In a galvanic cell the oxidation at the anode releases electrons into the electrode, so the anode becomes the negative electrode; the cathode gives up electrons to the ions being reduced and becomes positive. In the Daniell cell:
\( \displaystyle \text{Anode (}-\text{):}\quad \ce{Zn(s) -> Zn^2+(aq) + 2e-} \)
\( \displaystyle \text{Cathode (}+\text{):}\quad \ce{Cu^2+(aq) + 2e- -> Cu(s)} \)
So the correct statement is that reduction occurs at the cathode.
Why the other options are incorrect
Option (1) Positively charged electrode is called anode. — Incorrect. In a galvanic cell the anode is the negative electrode, because electrons are released into it by oxidation.
Option (2) Negatively charged electrode is called cathode. — Incorrect. In a galvanic cell the cathode is the positive electrode, because it loses electrons to the ions being reduced.
Option (3) Oxidation occurs at cathode. — Incorrect. Oxidation always occurs at the anode; the cathode is the electrode of reduction.
NCERT (2026-27 edition):
Galvanic Cells – “… In a galvanic cell, the half-cell in which oxidation takes place is called anode and it has a negative potential with respect to the solution. The other half-cell in which reduction takes place is called cathode and it has a positive potential with respect to the solution.”