What does a failure in the cable to the anodes represent in a cathodic protection system?

In a cathodic protection system, a failure in the cable to the anodes indicates that there is a disruption in the electrical connection necessary for the system to function properly. When this cable fails, the result is a breakdown in communication with the anodes, which typically serve as the source of protective current that is intended to mitigate corrosion on the structures being protected.

As a result, the system will exhibit normal DC voltage readings but will show zero current output. This situation occurs because the anodes are no longer connected to the cathodic protection system, preventing any current from flowing. This lack of current output means that the protective measures against corrosion are essentially lost, potentially leading to increased corrosion rates on the structure.

In contrast, the other choices suggest desirable conditions or outcomes that do not accurately reflect the consequences of a cable failure. For example, claiming the system is completely operational or that it achieves increased protection would be misleading, as these conditions rely on the functional integrity of the cables. Similarly, suggesting a higher current output would imply that the system is still functioning correctly, which is not the case when there is a cable failure. Thus, option A aptly describes the situation resulting from a failure in the cable to the anodes.