CATHODE Meaning and
Definition
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A cathode is a fundamental component of an electrical device or system, often found in electronic devices such as batteries and vacuum tubes. It refers to the electrode or terminal that allows electrons to flow into the system, completing an electrical circuit. In simple terms, the cathode is the negative terminal of a battery or device, which serves as the source of electrons that constitute the current.
In many batteries, the cathode is the electrode at which reduction reactions occur during discharge. It accepts electrons from the anode, which is the positive terminal, and facilitates the flow of electric charge across the battery. Moreover, in vacuum tubes and electron tubes, the cathode acts as an emitter of electrons, thermionically or through other emission processes, which are accelerated towards the anode.
The term "cathode" finds its origins in the Greek word "kathodos," meaning "way down" or "descent," indicating its role as the electrode where electrons descend into the system. It is typically represented by a minus sign (-) in electronic diagrams to distinguish it from the anode, which is marked by a plus sign (+).
In summary, a cathode is an electrode or terminal acting as the source of electrons within an electrical device or system. It serves as the negative terminal in circuits, accepting electrons from the positive terminal (anode) and allowing the flow of electric current.
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The negative pole or electrode of a constant electric current.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
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The surface at which electricity passes out of a body.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
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Etymology of CATHODE
The word "cathode" has its origins in the Greek language. It comes from the Greek word "kathodos", which is a combination of the prefix "kath-" meaning "down" or "under", and "hodos" meaning "way" or "path". The term "cathode" was first used in the field of electricity in the 19th century by the English physicist and chemist Sir William Whewell, who adapted the Greek term to describe the electrode from which current flows into a polarized electrical device.
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