An electrolytic cell is an electrochemical cell that utilizes an external source of electrical energy (voltage applied between two electrodes) to drive a chemical reaction that would not otherwise occur.
In a galvanic (voltaic) cell, the energy from a spontaneous reaction generates electricity, whereas in an electrolytic cell, electrical energy is consumed to drive a nonspontaneous redox reaction.
Both types of cells use two electrodes that provide an electrical connection between systems that are separated in space.
For example, water can be subjected to electrolysis (with the help of an electrolytic cell) to form gaseous oxygen and gaseous hydrogen.
Learn more about electrolytic cell here:
