An electrochemical cell is a device that converts chemical energy into electrical energy or uses electrical energy to drive a chemical reaction.
It consists of two electrodes (an anode and a cathode) placed in electrolyte solutions, which allow ions to move and complete the circuit.
There are two main types:
- Voltaic (Galvanic) cells – produce electricity from spontaneous chemical reactions.
- Electrolytic cells – use electricity to drive non-spontaneous chemical reactions.
In simple terms, an electrochemical cell is a system where chemical reactions and electricity interact, allowing us to either generate electrical power or cause chemical changes using electricity.
Examples include batteries, fuel cells, and electroplating setups.