Why do positive ions move toward the negative electrode in an electrolytic cell?

In an electrolytic cell, positive ions (cations) move toward the negative electrode, known as the cathode, because of the fundamental principle that opposite electrical charges attract each other.123

When an electrical potential difference is applied to the electrodes, the negative electrode creates an electrostatic force that draws the positively charged ions toward it. Upon reaching the cathode, these ions undergo a reduction process, where they gain electrons from the electrode to become neutral atoms or molecules, or ions with a lower charge. This migration of ions is the mechanism by which electric current is carried through the electrolyte.134