Galvaaninen

Galvaaninen refers to phenomena related to electricity generated by chemical reactions, specifically involving dissimilar metals in an electrolyte. The term originates from the Italian physician and anatomist Luigi Galvani, whose experiments with frog legs and metals in the late 18th century led to early understanding of bioelectricity. His work paved the way for the development of the galvanic cell, also known as a voltaic cell or battery, which converts chemical energy into electrical energy.

A simple galvanic cell consists of two electrodes, typically made of different metals, immersed in an electrolyte solution. The electrolyte can be a liquid, paste, or even a solid material that allows ions to move between the electrodes. At the anode, the more reactive metal undergoes oxidation, losing electrons and forming positive ions. These electrons travel through an external circuit to the cathode, where a reduction reaction occurs. In this process, ions from the electrolyte or the electrode itself gain electrons. The flow of electrons constitutes an electric current.

The potential difference, or voltage, generated by a galvanic cell depends on the specific metals used and the electrolyte. This principle is fundamental to all electrochemical batteries, from early voltaic piles to modern portable power sources. The term "galvanic" is also used more broadly to describe any process involving the interaction of different metals in an electrolyte, such as galvanic corrosion, where the more reactive metal corrodes preferentially.