What are the two corrosion poles identified in galvanic corrosion?

The two corrosion poles identified in galvanic corrosion refer to the anode and cathode. In galvanic corrosion, when two dissimilar metals are in contact in the presence of an electrolyte, one metal acts as the anode where oxidation occurs, and the other acts as the cathode where reduction takes place.

At the anode, metal atoms lose electrons and are oxidized, which leads to corrosion of that metal. Conversely, at the cathode, the received electrons facilitate a reduction reaction that prevents corrosion at that site. This creates a flow of electrons from the anode to the cathode, establishing a galvanic cell that leads to the deterioration of the anode material. Understanding these poles is crucial for preventing galvanic corrosion in systems involving different types of metal components, as it helps to identify which material will corrode faster and implement protective measures.