Which reaction does cathodic protection primarily aim to prevent?

Cathodic protection primarily aims to prevent oxidation, which is a chemical reaction where a material, typically metal, loses electrons. This process is responsible for corrosion, especially in structures such as pipelines and tanks that are exposed to moisture and various electrolytes. In the context of cathodic protection, a sacrificial anode or an impressed current system is employed to supply electrons to the metal surface, thus making it the cathode in the electrochemical reaction. As a result, the oxidation process is suppressed, protecting the metal from degradation.

Understanding this principle is crucial because it highlights the effectiveness of cathodic protection strategies in mitigating corrosion-related issues. On the other hand, reduction, electrolysis, and neutralization do not specifically address the direct prevention of corrosion, which is the primary focus of cathodic protection methods. These other reactions may occur in various electrochemical processes but do not play the same catalytic role in protecting metals from oxidative damage as cathodic protection does.