What term describes current that does not follow the intended path?

Stray current refers to electrical current that does not follow its intended path and instead travels through unintended routes, often finding alternate conductors. This phenomenon can occur in various scenarios, particularly in cathodic protection systems where currents may leak into the surrounding environment, such as soil or water.

The presence of stray current can introduce significant challenges, including the potential for corrosion on unintended structures, like pipelines or building foundations. Understanding stray current is crucial for the effectiveness and safety of cathodic protection systems, as it helps practitioners design and implement measures to mitigate the adverse effects of unintended current.

By studying stray current and its implications, operators can ensure that cathodic protection systems are effective in preserving the integrity of metallic structures without causing unforeseen damage elsewhere.