Which outcome limits the lifespan of early iron-hulled ships despite cathodic protection?

💡 Explanation

Hydrogen embrittlement decreases hull strength over time because iron reacts with cathodically-produced hydrogen, therefore compromising structural integrity rather than direct oxidation by galvanic corrosion, which sacrificial anodes would ideally prevent if not for hydrogen.

• Which risk increases when early Chinese crossbow trigger strength declines?
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• Which consequence arose when Song Dynasty iron foundry outputs outstripped coking coal sources?
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