Sacrificial zinc anodes are used on the saltwater side of heat exchangers to __________.

Correct Answer: Option A — reduce electrolytic action on heat exchanger metals

Sacrificial zinc anodes are installed in saltwater-cooled heat exchangers to provide cathodic protection. By being more anodic than the heat exchanger materials, the zinc corrodes preferentially, thereby mitigating electrolytic (galvanic) corrosion of the expensive copper-nickel or brass components within the cooling system.