Which species would act as the cathode in the following reaction? ? 4 Au(s) + 16 Cl - (aq) + 3 O 2 (g) + 6 H 2 O( l ) ? 4 AuCl 4 - (aq) + 12 OH - (aq) Select one: a. Pt(s) b. Cl - (aq) c. O 2 (g) d. Au(s) Solution Cathode is a negatively charged electrode at which the reduction takes place that is the cathode provides the electron to the positively charged ions In this cell reaction the Au(s) converted to Au 3+ ion. When the Au3+ ion moves toward the Au(s) the the reduction takes place hence the Au(s) act as cathode .