What is an electrolyte?

An electrolyte is defined as an ionized solution capable of conducting electricity. This is because electrolytes contain free ions that can move and carry electric current when an electrical potential is applied. In various systems, such as batteries and electrochemical cells, electrolytes play a crucial role by allowing the flow of current necessary for the chemical reactions that occur within these systems.

The nature of electrolytes is fundamental to many applications in corrosion science, as the presence of electrolytes can significantly influence the electrochemical behavior of metals and other materials. Understanding what constitutes an electrolyte helps in assessing corrosion processes and implementing suitable cathodic protection methods.