In electrochemical cells, electron flow moves from which component to which component?

In electrochemical cells, electron flow occurs from the anode to the cathode. This is because, during the electrochemical reaction, oxidation happens at the anode, which is where electrons are released. These electrons then travel through the external circuit to the cathode, where reduction takes place, meaning electrons are gained. This foundational concept of electrochemistry is essential for understanding how batteries and other electrochemical systems function, as the direction of electron flow is critical for the operation of the cell and the overall chemical reactions involved. The movement of electrons from anode to cathode illustrates the basic principle of how energy is harnessed and transferred in electrochemical processes.