What effect would increased current have on the corrosion rate?

Increased current has a direct impact on the corrosion rate of a metal surface. When the current flowing through a cathodic protection system is increased, it enhances the electrochemical reactions occurring at the anode and cathode sites.

This process affects the overall corrosion dynamics. Specifically, higher current levels typically lead to an increased cathodic protection current density, which can raise the rate at which corrosion protective measures are applied. While cathodic protection aims to reduce corrosion, an increase in current can also drive up localized corrosion rates in areas not properly protected.

Thus, a relation does exist where increased current can exacerbate corrosion effects, leading to the conclusion that such circumstances usually result in an increase in the corrosion rate rather than a decrease or no effect. Understanding this relationship is crucial in the field of cathodic protection as it informs the operator of the necessary adjustments needed for effective corrosion mitigation.