What is one key purpose of a galvanic isolator?

A galvanic isolator serves a critical role in marine environments by reducing electrical corrosion. In a maritime setting, vessels often share a common electrical ground with other boats and structures. This can lead to a situation where stray currents, typically from the anode-cathode reactions, cause unwanted galvanic corrosion.

By incorporating a galvanic isolator into the electrical system, it effectively separates the vessel's ground from the common ground, thereby minimizing the potential for galvanic currents to flow between the connected vessels. This isolation is essential for protecting submerged metal components—such as hull fittings, propellers, and rudders—from the detrimental effects of corrosion, which can occur due to the electrolytic processes activated when dissimilar metals are in contact in a conductive environment like seawater.

While other options address various marine systems, they do not align with the primary purpose of a galvanic isolator. Prevention of water accumulation and enhancing signal transmission relate to other systems on a boat, while allowing AC current to pass does not directly pertain to the corrosion protection benefits that galvanic isolators provide. Thus, the identification of reducing electrical corrosion as a primary function highlights its importance in safeguarding a vessel's longevity and operational integrity.