Rusting
Salt can accelerate rusting by helping the electrochemical corrosion process. This topic is part of Chemistry within Science & Nature. This page currently draws on 7 supporting questions, with answers and bonus facts available below.
Rusting trivia questions
Rusting is the corrosion of which metal?
Answer: Iron
Bonus fact: Rust is made largely of hydrated iron oxides.
Which two environmental factors are usually needed for iron to rust readily?
Answer: Oxygen and water
Bonus fact: Salt can accelerate rusting by helping the electrochemical corrosion process.
What common coating protects iron or steel by covering it with zinc?
Answer: Galvanizing
Bonus fact: Zinc can protect steel even if the coating is scratched because zinc oxidizes more readily than iron.
Rusting iron is an example of what process?
Answer: Oxidation
Bonus fact: Iron loses electrons as it reacts with oxygen and water.
What two environmental ingredients are important for ordinary rusting?
Answer: Oxygen and water
Bonus fact: Moisture and oxygen allow electrochemical corrosion.
Why does salt water often accelerate rusting?
Answer: It conducts ions more effectively
Bonus fact: Dissolved salts improve the electrolyte needed for corrosion.
What common form of corrosion affects iron?
Answer: Rusting
Bonus fact: Iron oxide compounds form in the presence of oxygen and moisture.