What does polarization refer to in electrochemistry?

Polarization in electrochemistry refers to the deviation of open circuit potential, which is indicated in the correct choice. When an electrochemical cell operates, various reactions occur at the electrodes that can lead to changes in the potential in relation to the state of the cell. Specifically, polarization describes how the potential shifts away from its equilibrium value when a current is applied, resulting in an altered electrochemical state.

In practical terms, when a cathodic protection system is in operation, polarization occurs at the cathode where the current influences the electrochemical reaction taking place. This effect is crucial to understand because proper measurement and interpretation of polarization can help assess the effectiveness of cathodic protection, indicating how well it is preventing corrosion on metallic structures.

The other choices do not represent the correct definition of polarization. For instance, an increase in current flow is a result of polarization, but not what it signifies. Similarly, temperature changes can influence electrochemical reactions but are not related to the concept of polarization. Voltage stabilization is a separate phenomenon and does not capture the essence of how open circuit potential shifts during operation. Thus, the focus on the deviation of open circuit potential accurately defines polarization in this context.