Which of the following is true about an electrochemical corrosion cell?

Which of the following is true about an electrochemical corrosion cell?

• A. As polarization increases, current will decrease
• B. Electrolyte is not needed in the cell
• C. Current flows from cathode to anode
• D. Electrons flow from the cathode to the anode

Answer: (A)

The correct choice is based on the principles of electrochemical corrosion cells. In such cells, the relationship between polarization and current is fundamental. When polarization occurs, it means that the electrochemical reactions at the electrodes are being hindered or impeded. As a result, if polarization increases, the electrochemical potential difference is altered, leading to a decrease in the current that can flow through the cell. This relationship is a key concept in understanding the behavior of cathodic protection systems and the overall dynamics of corrosion processes. The other statements do not accurately reflect the principles involved in an electrochemical corrosion cell. For instance, the nature of the cell necessitates an electrolyte as it provides the ionic medium through which current can flow. Current actually flows from the anode to the cathode in an electrochemical cell, following conventional current flow, which is opposite to the direction of electron flow. Electrons, however, do flow from the cathode to the anode, which supports the electrochemical reactions taking place at each electrode. Understanding these principles is essential for effectively implementing corrosion control measures.

The correct choice is based on the principles of electrochemical corrosion cells. In such cells, the relationship between polarization and current is fundamental. When polarization occurs, it means that the electrochemical reactions at the electrodes are being hindered or impeded. As a result, if polarization increases, the electrochemical potential difference is altered, leading to a decrease in the current that can flow through the cell. This relationship is a key concept in understanding the behavior of cathodic protection systems and the overall dynamics of corrosion processes.

The other statements do not accurately reflect the principles involved in an electrochemical corrosion cell. For instance, the nature of the cell necessitates an electrolyte as it provides the ionic medium through which current can flow. Current actually flows from the anode to the cathode in an electrochemical cell, following conventional current flow, which is opposite to the direction of electron flow. Electrons, however, do flow from the cathode to the anode, which supports the electrochemical reactions taking place at each electrode. Understanding these principles is essential for effectively implementing corrosion control measures.