It is the electrode at which oxidation takes place in an electrolytic cell .

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Electrolytic Cells**: An electrolytic cell consists of two electrodes: the anode and the cathode, immersed in an electrolyte solution. The electrodes are connected to a power source, usually a battery.

2. **Identifying the Electrodes**: In an electrolytic cell:
- The **anode** is the positive electrode.
- The **cathode** is the negative electrode.

3. **Role of the Electrolyte**: The electrolyte is a solution containing ions. It allows the flow of electric current through the movement of these ions. The electrolyte contains both positive ions (cations) and negative ions (anions).

4. **Movement of Ions**: When a voltage is applied:
- Negative ions (anions) move towards the anode.
- Positive ions (cations) move towards the cathode.

5. **Oxidation at the Anode**: At the anode, oxidation occurs. This means that the negative ions lose electrons. For example, if chloride ions (Cl⁻) are present, they will be oxidized to chlorine gas (Cl₂) by losing electrons.

6. **Reduction at the Cathode**: At the cathode, reduction occurs. This means that positive ions gain electrons. For instance, sodium ions (Na⁺) will gain electrons to form sodium metal (Na).

7. **Conclusion**: Since oxidation occurs at the anode, the answer to the question is that the electrode at which oxidation takes place in an electrolytic cell is the **anode**.

**Final Answer**: The electrode at which oxidation takes place in an electrolytic cell is the **anode**.

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