Cathodic
(adjective)
Relating to a cathode, the electrode of an electrochemical cell at which reduction occurs.
Origin:
Derived from the greek word "kathodos", meaning "downward" or "descending".
Examples:
- In a galvanic cell, the cathodic electrode is the electrode at which the reduction reaction occurs, and electrons are produced.
- The cathodic protection of a metal surface involves applying a low voltage to the metal, which prevents corrosion by reducing the rate of oxidation.
- Cathodic protection is often used to preserve the integrity of pipelines, ships, and other metal structures in harsh environments.
- In cathodic electrodeposition, metal ions are reduced at the cathodic electrode, depositing a layer of metal on the surface.
- The cathodic current density is an important parameter in the design and performance of cathodic protection systems, as it determines the rate at which electrons are produced.