Final answer:
The two basic types of arc welding electrodes are Consumable and Non-consumable. Consumable electrodes melt to form the weld, while Non-consumable electrodes only provide the arc and do not melt into the joint.
Step-by-step explanation:
The two basic types of arc welding electrodes are Consumable and Non-consumable electrodes. Consumable electrodes are used as a filler material that melts and fuses with the base metal to form the joint. These include various types of coated rods and wires that not only help in the creation of the arc but also become part of the welded joint. On the other hand, Non-consumable electrodes do not melt and become part of the weld. Instead, they simply provide the arc and are made from materials such as tungsten or carbon, which have a higher melting point than the base metals being joined. Therefore, the correct answer to the question is option A: Consumable and Non-consumable.