anodische

Anodische is a German adjective used in electrochemistry to describe phenomena, reactions, or species that occur at or are produced at the anode, the electrode where oxidation takes place in an electrochemical cell. The term applies to both galvanic (voltaic) cells and electrolytic cells, and it is often used to distinguish processes from those at the cathode.

Etymology and usage: The word is derived from Anode and the suffix -isch. In English, the corresponding term is anodic or anodic. In German-language texts you will find anodische Oxidation, anodische Beschichtung (anodic coating), or anodische Reaktionen to denote oxidation occurring at the anode.

Examples and applications: Anodization of aluminum uses controlled anodic oxidation to create a thick oxide film that enhances corrosion resistance and allows dyeing. In water electrolysis the anode undergoes oxidation and oxygen evolution: 2 H2O → O2 + 4 H+ + 4 e−. Anodic dissolution occurs when a metal oxidizes and dissolves as metal ions at the anode. Anodic oxide films are also used to tailor surface properties in various metals and alloys.

In measurements and theory, anodic processes are associated with oxidation currents and anodic potentials. They are contrasted with cathodic processes, where reduction occurs. The term also appears in materials literature describing anodic oxide films and coatings used to modify surface characteristics. See also: anode, anodization, anodic oxidation, cathode, electrochemistry.