Regarding corrosion and the galvanic series, which statement is true?

• A. The cathodic area corrodes
• B. The most anodic metals give up electrons most easily
• C. Both statements are true
• D. None of the statements are true

Answer: (B)

In a galvanic couple, metals have different tendencies to oxidize, which is shown by their position in the galvanic series. The most anodic metals are the ones that are least noble and have the strongest tendency to lose electrons. Because corrosion is an oxidation process, those anodic metals will give up electrons most readily and become the site where corrosion occurs. The cathodic area, being more noble, resists oxidation and tends to be protected, not corrode. So the true statement is that the most anodic metals give up electrons most easily.