In the galvanic series, where do stainless steel, bronze, and copper rank?

Stainless steel, bronze, and copper rank as the least active metals in the galvanic series due to their relatively high resistance to corrosion and oxidation compared to more active metals. In electrochemical terms, the galvanic series is a list of metals and alloys arranged according to their electrochemical potential in a specific environment, usually in a saline solution.

Being categorized as the least active metals means that these materials do not readily lose electrons and corrode when in contact with more reactive metals. This property makes them suitable for applications in plumbing and water treatment facilities, where resistance to corrosion is critical for ensuring the safety and quality of drinking water.

The definition of activity in this context refers to the tendency of a metal to oxidize and corrode. Stainless steel, due to its alloying elements like chromium which forms a passive oxide layer, offers an example of how modifying a base metal can enhance its stability. Bronze and copper also possess favorable characteristics that lead to lower reactivity, making them more durable in applications that involve exposure to moisture and varying chemical environments.

In contrast, more active metals, which are generally found higher in the galvanic series, are more prone to oxidation and degradation in similar situations. Therefore, the ranking of stainless steel, bronze