Sacrificial Anode
Key Stage 4
Meaning
A sacrificial anode is a reactive metal attached to a less reactive metal to prevent the less reactive metal from corroding.
About Sacrificial Anodes
- Corrosion of a metal object can also be prevented using a Sacrificial Anode which is a metal more reactive metal placed in electrical contact with the object.
- A Sacrificial Anode prevents corrosion of a metal because the more reactive metal has a greater tendency to form positive ions causing it to oxidise first.
- Zinc is commonly used to prevent Iron from rusting because Zinc is a stronger reducing agent than Iron.
Examples
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| A Sacrificial Anode made of Zinc has been attached to the Iron hull of a boat. |