Florida Drinking Water Operator "B" Practice Test

What is the location where metal is lost in a corrosion cell?

1. Cathode

2. Anode

3. Electrolyte

4. Barrier

The correct answer is: Anode

In a corrosion cell, metal is lost at the anode. The anode is the electrode where oxidation occurs, which involves the loss of electrons. During this process, metallic atoms at the anode lose electrons and convert to metal ions, effectively leading to the deterioration of the metal itself. This loss of material is what is generally referred to as corrosion. The cathode, on the other hand, is where reduction takes place; electrons that flow through the circuit are gained by the metal ions. The electrolyte serves as the medium through which ions move, but it does not directly lose metal. A barrier might refer to protective coatings that prevent corrosion but does not correspond to a location where metal loss occurs in the corrosion process. Understanding the roles of these components is crucial for managing and mitigating corrosion in water systems.