Which option correctly identifies the term for protective electrical method against corrosion?

• A. Galvanic protection
• B. Cathodic protection
• C. Physical barrier coating
• D. Anodic protection

Answer: (B)

Cathodic protection is an electrical method to prevent corrosion by making the metal surface the cathode, which reduces its tendency to oxidize. This is done by supplying electrons to the structure through a sacrificial anode or an impressed-current power source, so the metal remains at a negative potential relative to its environment. Because it relies on electrical control of the metal’s potential to suppress corrosion, it covers both galvanic protection (sacrificial anodes) and impressed-current systems. Physical barrier coating, while protective, is a non-electrical approach that simply blocks contact with the environment. Anodic protection is a different electrical method that promotes a passive film under specific conditions and is not the general term used for the protective electrical method. Therefore, the standard term for this protective electrical approach is cathodic protection.