What Is the Difference Between Diodes, Anodes and Cathodes?
The physical construction of a diode varies slightly based on the reason for its use, but certain factors remain the same. The diode has two terminals, a cathode and an anode, that are connected by a small amount of semiconductive material. This material is typically silicon, but a wide range of different materials may be used. The entire assembly is surrounded in a glass or plastic covering. Diodes may be any size, and while most diodes aren’t very big, they can be almost microscopically small. The anode takes in electricity. This terminal gets its name from the negatively charged anions that move towards it during a common electrochemical reaction. The charge of the anode varies based on the device’s function. If the device uses power, the charge is negative, and if it makes power, its charge is positive. This polarity shift allows electricity to flow properly from the terminal. A cathode is essentially the opposite of an anode. The cathode allows power to flow out of the device. Thi
