Significance of electrolyte in aqueous electrolysis?

Question

I understand the anode and cathode concepts, but what again does the electrolyte do? Its obviously in solution, but what does it do if it is not involved in the net aqueous equation? Can you back your answer with support from an equation(s)? Thx

Answer 1

Electrons can only travel through the external electrical circuit, and are pushed by the power supply or battery from the anode to the cathode by means of the wires.

The electrolyte is there to provide ions for the redox reactions that have to occur to supply electrons to the anode, and take them from the cathode, in order to complete the circuit.