In an impressed current system, the rectifier positive terminal is connected to:

In an impressed current cathodic protection system, the rectifier's positive terminal is connected to the structure being protected. This is a critical arrangement because the positive output facilitates the flow of current from the rectifier into the structure, which serves as the anode. By doing so, it helps to prevent corrosion by driving the electrochemical reactions that protect the surface of the metal from corrosive elements.

In this setup, the structure becomes the site of the corrosion prevention. When the positive terminal is correctly connected to the structure, the flow of current creates an environment that mitigates the electrochemical processes leading to corrosion. This alignment is essential for ensuring that the cathodic protection system functions effectively. The connection to the structure also emphasizes the importance of polarity in such systems, where the relationship between the anodes, cathodes, and the electrolyte must be carefully managed to achieve optimal protection.