What are the names of the two electrodes of a diode?

The two electrodes of a diode are referred to as the anode and cathode. Understanding these terms is crucial in the context of electronics and radio communication, as diodes play a significant role in rectifying signals, protecting circuits, and allowing current to flow in one direction only.

The anode is the electrode where current enters the diode, while the cathode is where current exits. In a typical silicon diode, for example, the anode is marked with a positive symbol (often a line) while the cathode is identified by a band. When a positive voltage is applied to the anode relative to the cathode, the diode becomes forward-biased, allowing current to flow. Conversely, if the voltage is applied in the reverse direction, the diode becomes reverse-biased and blocks current, which is an essential property for various applications, such as in power supplies and signal processing.

This terminology is standard across numerous electronics applications, helping to unify concepts in circuitry and ensuring effective communication among engineers and technicians.