What is the role of the anode in galvanic corrosion?

The anode plays a critical role in galvanic corrosion as it is the site where oxidation occurs, leading to the loss of material. In a galvanic cell, the anode is the electrode that undergoes corrosion by oxidizing the metal, releasing electrons into the circuit. This process causes the anode to corrode away over time.

Galvanic corrosion happens when two different metals are in electrical contact in the presence of an electrolyte, leading to a flow of electrons between them. The anode, which is the less noble metal (more susceptible to oxidation), will corrode more rapidly than it would if it were not coupled with another metal. Hence, it is accurate to say that the anode's purpose in this phenomenon is to corrode away as part of its function in the electrochemical process. This corrosion can ultimately lead to structural failure if not managed or mitigated properly.