Carbon is a good conductor – a key requirement for successful electrolysis. When a carbon electrode is used (normally in the form of graphite), the number of freely moving electrons within the element’s structure results in a highly conductive material. Carbon is also relatively inexpensive to purchase, is stable even at high temperatures and is a tough, durable material.

Carbon electrodes are used in applications where electron transfer is required and are commonly utilized during electrolysis.

Carbon electrodes are used in electrolysis due to their competence as a conductor and the number of free electrons they have available for transfer. Not only is carbon an efficient conductor, it also has a very high melting point. This means it can be used to facilitate a wide range of different reactions. Other advantages of using carbon include a relatively low cost, longevity and ease of procurement.

There are two electrodes in an electrolysis solution: the positive and the negative electrode. The reaction that happens at each electrode is different. When the compound to be electrolyzed is in solution with the electrical current passing through it, the compound’s constituents become ionized (separate into positively and negatively charged ions). Positively charged ions (metals and hydrogen), are attracted to the negative electrode (the cathode), where they receive electrons (a process known as oxidation). Negatively charged ions are attracted towards the anode (the positively charged electrode), where they give up electrons (reduction).