Question

Galvanic corrosion is likely to be most rapid and severe when ________.

1) Two dissimilar metals are in contact with each other
2) The metals are exposed to a dry environment
3) The metals are coated with a protective layer
4) The metals are immersed in a conductive electrolyte

Answer 1

Galvanic corrosion is most rapid when two dissimilar metals are in contact in the presence of an electrolyte, with one metal corroding much faster due to electrochemical reactions.

Step-by-step explanation:

Galvanic corrosion is most rapid and severe when two dissimilar metals are in contact with each other and immersed in a conductive electrolyte. This type of corrosion occurs as an electrochemical process where one metal acts as an anode and the other as a cathode. For example, if iron is in contact with a more corrosion-resistant metal such as tin, copper, or lead, the iron will corrode faster because it acts as the anode. A substance such as moisture that acts as an electrolyte accelerates this process, leading to potentially catastrophic failure, as witnessed in older homes with copper and iron pipes directly connected.