Ions

Ions, the components into which an electrolyte is broken up on electrolysis. The one, the Anion (the electro-negative component—e.g. chlorine), travels 'against' the current (in its conventional direction in the circuit), and is deposited on or chemically attacks the anode or positive electrode; the other, the Cation (the electro-positive component—e.g. copper), travels 'with' the current to the cathode—e.g. to the spoons in the plating bath. See ELECTRICITY, Vol. IV. p. 270.