The reactions occurring at the cathode during electrolysis involve...........

Options

A. reduction
B. oxidation
C. reverse
D. None of these

Explanation

To answer the question regarding the reactions occurring at the cathode during electrolysis, we can break down the process step by step:

### Step-by-Step 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 an electrolytic cell, there are two electrodes: the anode (positive electrode) and the cathode (negative electrode). The cathode is where reduction occurs.

3. **Electrolytic Solution**: For the purpose of this explanation, let's consider the electrolysis of water. Water (H₂O) is a poor conductor of electricity on its own, so we often add a small amount of electrolyte (like dilute sulfuric acid) to facilitate the process.

4. **Ionization of Water**: When water is subjected to electrolysis, it dissociates into its ions:
\[ H_2O \rightarrow H^+ + OH^- \]
Here, \(H^+\) (hydrogen ions) and \(OH^-\) (hydroxide ions) are produced.

5. **Movement of Ions**: In the electrolytic cell, the negatively charged cathode attracts the positively charged hydrogen ions (\(H^+\)). This is because opposite charges attract.

6. **Reduction at the Cathode**: At the cathode, the \(H^+\) ions gain electrons (which are supplied by the external circuit) and undergo reduction:
\[ 2H^+ + 2e^- \rightarrow H_2(g) \]
This reaction produces hydrogen gas (\(H_2\)).

7. **Conclusion**: Therefore, the reaction occurring at the cathode during electrolysis involves the reduction of cations (in this case, hydrogen ions) to form hydrogen gas.

### Final Answer:
The reactions occurring at the cathode during electrolysis involve the reduction of cations, such as hydrogen ions (\(H^+\)), to form hydrogen gas (\(H_2\)).

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