Question

In an operating voltaic cell, reduction occurs

Answer 1

I use this to remember "an ox, red cat"

anode oxidation
cathode reduction.

so the reduction happens at the cathode

Answer 2

Answer: Option (2) is the correct answer.

Explanation:

A voltaic cell is an electrochemical cell which helps in generation of electricity by migration of ions in the process.

In a voltaic cell, both reduction and oxidation half reactions take place. In oxidation-half reaction, there is loss of electrons whereas in reduction-half reaction there is gain of electrons.

Since, it is known that an anode is negatively charged and cathode is positively charged. So, at anode oxidation takes place and at cathode reduction takes place.

Thus, we can conclude that in an operating voltaic cell, reduction occurs at the cathode.