Answer to Question #120680 in Inorganic Chemistry for Yuki

Question

Why are ‘anode’ and ‘cathode’ not suitable terms for a rechargeable Li-ion battery (e.g. compared to standard non-rechargeable battery)?

Answer 1

For rechargeable Li-ion battery, the term anode (or negative electrode) designates the electrode where oxidation is taking place during the discharge cycle; the other electrode is the cathode (or positive electrode). During the charge cycle, the positive electrode becomes the anode and the negative electrode becomes the cathode. Because both electrodes change their charge during the charge and discharge cycles, terms ‘anode’ and ‘cathode’ are not suitable for a rechargeable Li-ion battery compared to standard non-rechargeable battery.