The Blueprint of Water

Cathode

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Cathode

Definition

The cathode is the site of reduction in the corrosion cell, where electrons released at the anode are consumed. It is the higher-reduction-potential location.

Electrons are most commonly consumed by oxygen reduction, O2 plus 2H2O plus 4e- giving 4OH-, and in acidic systems by hydrogen reduction, 2H+ plus 2e- giving H2. These reactions do not remove metal directly but provide the electromotive force that allows continued anodic metal dissolution. A continuous supply of oxygen or any oxidizer is dangerous because consuming electrons lets the anode keep dissolving uninterrupted.

Four requirements for electrochemical corrosion · Reduction · Corrosion Cell

How it connects

Part of The Blueprint of Water · ⚡ electrochemistry

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