2025-05-02 I'll analyze the relationship between conventional definitions of anode/cathode and Ken Wheeler's unconventional usage of these terms. ### Conventional Definition vs. Wheeler's Usage of Anode/Cathode #### Conventional Definition In standard electrical engineering and electrochemistry: - **Anode**: Traditionally defined as the electrode where oxidation occurs (electrons leave the cell). In a battery being discharged, the anode is the negative terminal where electrons flow out. In an electrolytic cell, the anode is positive and attracts negatively charged ions. - **Cathode**: Conventionally defined as the electrode where reduction occurs (electrons enter the cell). In a battery being discharged, the cathode is the positive terminal where electrons flow in. In an electrolytic cell, the cathode is negative and attracts positively charged ions. #### Wheeler's Usage Wheeler applies these terms metaphorically to his cosmological framework: - **Anode (in Wheeler's system)**: Associated with gravity, matter, and what he calls "the dielectric." Wheeler characterizes these as representing concentration, contraction, inertia, and rest - the "drain" in his shower/drain analogy. - **Cathode (in Wheeler's system)**: Associated with magnetism, force, and expansion. Wheeler characterizes these as representing radiation, dispersion, and motion - the "shower head" in his analogy. #### Key Differences 1. **Function vs. Metaphor**: The conventional definitions describe specific electrochemical functions at physical electrodes, while Wheeler uses the terms metaphorically to describe cosmic principles. 2. **Context Shift**: Wheeler has removed these terms from their original electrochemical context and repurposed them for his alternative cosmology. 3. **Polarity Inconsistency**: In conventional usage, anodes and cathodes have consistent relationships to charge and current direction. Wheeler's usage seems to select certain aspects of electrode behavior while ignoring others to fit his binary framework. 4. **Scientific Grounding**: The conventional definitions emerge from reproducible electrochemical observations, while Wheeler's usage represents his personal theoretical framework that isn't supported by mainstream physics. Wheeler appears to be using these established technical terms to build a sense of scientific legitimacy for his alternative theory, creating analogies between electrical phenomena and his concepts of universal forces. However, his usage doesn't maintain the precise technical meaning these terms have in their original context, instead selecting certain aspects that align with his binary cosmological framework.