Magnesium anodes are a type of sacrificial anode used to protect metal structures from corrosion, particularly in marine environments. They work by corroding themselves instead of the metal they are meant to protect, such as boats, pipelines, or storage tanks. This process is known as cathodic protection. These anodes are made from magnesium because it has a higher electrochemical potential than many metals, making it effective in preventing corrosion. When placed in water or soil, magnesium anodes create a galvanic cell, which helps to divert corrosive activity away from the protected metal surfaces.