What roles do the cathode and anode have in a photoelectric cell?

In a photoelectric cell, the cathode and anode serve distinct, complementary roles to facilitate the conversion of light into an electric current:

• Cathode: Often referred to as a photocathode, this component is made of a photosensitive material with a low work function. When illuminated, the cathode absorbs light energy and emits electrons via the photoelectric effect.123
• Anode: This component is held at a high positive voltage relative to the cathode. Its primary function is to collect the electrons emitted by the cathode. By attracting these free electrons, the anode completes the circuit and allows a measurable current to flow, which is directly proportional to the intensity of the incident light.13

In the absence of light, no electrons are emitted from the cathode, and no current flows between the two electrodes.1