Electrolysis Practice Exam

What type of current is referred to as Galvanic current?

1. Alternating current

2. Direct current

3. Static current

4. Residual current

The correct answer is: Direct current

Galvanic current refers specifically to direct current (DC), which is a type of electric current that flows consistently in a single direction. This flow of electricity is produced by chemical reactions, typically observed in batteries and galvanic cells. In electrolysis, direct current is crucial as it allows for the intentional movement of ions in an electrolytic solution, facilitating the decomposition of compounds. Alternating current (AC), on the other hand, periodically changes direction, making it unsuitable for the steady, unidirectional flow needed in processes like electrolysis. Static current refers to the accumulation of electric charge on a surface without movement, which does not apply to the existing context of current flow during electrochemical reactions. Residual current typically pertains to leakage currents in electrical safety scenarios, which is also irrelevant in the context of Galvanic current. Thus, direct current is the appropriate classification for Galvanic current due to its unidirectional flow that is essential for electrochemical processes.