Question 182Motor Plants - QMED

The correct answer is B) reduce electrolytic action on heat exchanger metals. Sacrificial zinc anodes are used on the salt water side of diesel engine heat exchangers to protect the metal components from galvanic corrosion. The zinc anode is more electrically active than the other metals in the system, so it acts as a sacrificial electrode and corrodes preferentially, preventing the more valuable heat exchanger metals from deteriorating. This helps maintain the integrity and functionality of the heat exchanger over time. The other answer choices are incorrect because they do not accurately describe the primary purpose of the sacrificial zinc anode in this application. Options A, C, and D are not the main reasons for using the zinc anode on the salt water side of the heat exchanger.