In galvanic cells, what is the direction of electron flow?

In galvanic cells, the direction of electron flow is from the anode to the cathode. This is because the anode is the site where oxidation occurs, leading to the release of electrons. These electrons then travel through the external circuit to the cathode, where reduction takes place. The flow of electrons from the anode to the cathode is driven by the inherent electrochemical potential difference between the two electrodes.

In simple terms, oxidation (loss of electrons) happens at the anode, and the electrons then move towards the cathode, where they are accepted during the reduction process. Understanding the flow of electrons in galvanic cells is fundamental to grasping not only electrochemistry but also the broader concepts of redox reactions and energy generation in chemical systems.