During electrolysis, the process taking place at cathode is

Options

A. oxidation
B. reduction
C. neutralisation
D. polymerisation

Explanation

**Step-by-Step Text Solution:**

1. **Understanding Electrolysis:**
Electrolysis is a chemical process that uses electrical energy to drive a non-spontaneous reaction. It involves the movement of ions in an electrolyte solution.

2. **Identifying the Electrodes:**
In electrolysis, there are two electrodes: the anode and the cathode. The anode is positively charged, while the cathode is negatively charged.

3. **Behavior of Ions at the Electrodes:**
- At the anode (positive electrode), oxidation occurs. This means that negatively charged ions (anions) lose electrons.
- At the cathode (negative electrode), reduction occurs. This means that positively charged ions (cations) gain electrons.

4. **Process at the Cathode:**
Since the cathode is negatively charged, it attracts positively charged ions (cations). For example, if sodium ions (Na⁺) are present, they will move towards the cathode.

5. **Reduction Reaction:**
When the cations reach the cathode, they gain electrons from the cathode. For instance, Na⁺ + e⁻ → Na. This process of gaining electrons is known as reduction.

6. **Conclusion:**
Therefore, the process taking place at the cathode during electrolysis is reduction.

**Final Answer:**
The process taking place at the cathode during electrolysis is **reduction**.

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