What does cathodic protection aim to control?

Cathodic protection is a technique used primarily to prevent corrosion of metal surfaces, particularly those that are buried or submerged. By applying a small electrical current to the metal surface, it alters the electrochemical environment, making the surface less susceptible to corrosion. This method is essential for protecting pipelines, storage tanks, and other structures that are vulnerable to corrosive elements in their surroundings.

The primary goal of cathodic protection is to safeguard metal components by counteracting the natural corrosion process, which can lead to structural failures and significant economic loss. This technique is widely implemented in industries that rely on pipelines and other metal infrastructure exposed to various environmental conditions, effectively extending the lifespan of these assets.

The other options do not accurately capture the purpose of cathodic protection; temperature fluctuations and pressure levels are unrelated to corrosion directly, while leak prevention, although a potential result of minimizing corrosion, is not the primary function of cathodic protection itself.