J. The cathode undergoes oxidation to release energy.

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# Understanding the Role of the Cathode in Energy Release: The Oxidation Process at a Glance When discussing energy storage systems—especially batteries—understanding the role of the cathode is essential. One key concept is that the cathode undergoes oxidation during discharge, playing a crucial part in energy release. Here’s a clear, scientific exploration of how oxidation at the cathode drives energy generation in modern electrochemical cells. ## The Basics of Cathode Electrode Behavior In batteries, particularly lithium-ion and similar rechargeable systems, the cathode (positive electrode) participates in reduction reactions during discharge, while the anode (negative electrode) undergoes oxidation. This dance between oxidation and reduction enables the flow of electrons, producing electrical energy.