RECHARGEABLE BATTERY2

"It operates as a galvanic cell during discharge and as an electrolytic cell during charge. As a consequence, the anode is the negative electrode during discharge, while it is the positive electrode during charge; at the same time, the cathode is the positive electrode during discharge, while it is the negative electrode during charge. This can create a confusing situation, and it is preferable to refer to the electrodes of a rechargeable battery as ""positive"" and ""negative,"" because this designation is independent of the operational mode. Unfortunately, this nomenclature is not always followed. Often the ""negative"" electrode is designated as anode and the ""positive"" electrode is designated as cathode. This naming convention is a carry-over from the convention of the non-rechargeable battery. "