Galvanic vs. Electrolytic Cells

Galvanic cells are electrochemical cells that use spontaneous redox reactions to generate electrical energy, while electrolytic cells use electrical energy to drive non-spontaneous redox reactions. In a galvanic cell, the anode is negatively charged and the cathode is positively charged, allowing electrons to flow naturally from the anode to the cathode. In contrast, an electrolytic cell has a positively charged anode and a negatively charged cathode, requiring an external power source to push electrons in the opposite direction and induce the non-spontaneous reaction. Galvanic cells are used in batteries to produce electricity, while electrolytic cells are used for processes like electroplating and extracting metals from ores.