What should be the ideal cathode-to-anode ratio whenever possible?

The ideal cathode-to-anode ratio is generally recommended to be low in order to effectively manage galvanic corrosion in marine systems. A low cathode-to-anode ratio means that there is a smaller area of cathodic material compared to anodic material, which can help to ensure that the anode sacrifices itself more effectively and provides better protection to the cathode.

This concept is important in the context of anodes used for cathodic protection, especially in marine environments where metals are commonly at risk of corrosion due to electrolytic processes. By utilizing a lower cathode-to-anode ratio, the corrosion protection becomes more efficient, as the larger surface area of the anode can better protect smaller areas subjected to corrosion.

While some may think a high ratio or an equal ratio would provide better protection, those scenarios can lead to inadequate protection where the sacrificial anode won't effectively shield the cathode from corrosion. In marine applications, the goal is to maximize the efficiency of the anode by ensuring it remains adequately large in comparison to the areas that it needs to protect, hence the preference for a low ratio.