The simultaneous reactions at anode and cathode makes study of individual processes difficult. In this paper the parameters for both the cathodic reactions and anodic catalytic activity are independently studied from each other using graphite electrode. The cathode based electro-Fenton and anodic electro-chlorination has been studied for degradation and decolorization of Reactive Black 5 (RB 5) dye. Process parameter interaction and optimization has been done using response surface methodology (RSM), central composite design matrix with statistical analysis including ANOVA and 3D plots. Electro-Fenton treatment was studied for pH, catalyst concentration, current applied and distance between the electrodes with pH, catalyst concentration and current applied being significant for both decolorization and degradation. Statistical analysis depicted the significant role of pH, current applied and distance between the electrodes in the electro chlorination treatment of RB5. Carbon as cathode was extremely effective however, in case of anode the carbon has low stability near oxygen evolution potential. (C) 2017 The Electrochemical Society. All rights reserved.