Final answer:
Straight polarity in welding means that the welding electrode is connected to the negative terminal of the power supply, which is DC power. Option E is the correct answer.
Step-by-step explanation:
The student's question is regarding the concept of straight polarity in the context of welding. In welding terminology, straight polarity means that the welding electrode is connected to the negative terminal of the power supply, which is direct current (DC power).
Option E, 'The welding electrode is connected to the negative terminal', is the correct answer. When using straight polarity, the electrons flow from the negative terminal of the battery (or power source) to the positive terminal, which resembles the directional flow of current in a circuit as indicated by the provided reference information.
This connection determines the direction of electron flow in the welding process, which affects the heat distribution between the electrode and the workpiece.