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Rust is a redox-reaction, meaning it is a reation where electrons are exchanged. Water would be the oxidation-agent and iron and aluminum the reduction-agents. As can be seen on the table of standard cell potensials, aliminium is a strong reduction-agent and water is too weak to induce oxidation. Iron, however, is not as strong, and can undergo oxidation.

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2mo ago

Iron corrodes in water because it is more reactive than aluminum. When iron comes into contact with water, it undergoes a chemical reaction that forms iron oxide (rust). Aluminum, on the other hand, has a protective oxide layer that forms on its surface when exposed to oxygen, preventing further corrosion.

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Q: Why does iron corrode in water and aluminum doesn't?
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Does aluminum rust in water?

No. However, it does corrode. Corrosion often results from salts and contaminants which leach into the aluminum (oxide) surface. Anodizing is a way of putting an artificial oxide coating on the aluminum. This coating is then often dyed and sealed to protect it. Protected aluminum is pretty good stuff and doesn't corrode if given a little bit of care. Natural aluminum also develops the same sort of coating (which is clear so it is hard to see), but it is more porous and fragile compared to anodized coatings.


Does electrolysis occur between aluminum and galvanised iron?

Yes, electrolysis can occur between aluminum and galvanized iron when they come into direct contact with each other in the presence of an electrolyte (such as water or saltwater). This can lead to galvanic corrosion, where the more noble aluminum acts as the cathode and the less noble galvanized iron acts as the anode, causing the iron to corrode. To prevent this, it is important to use appropriate insulation or barriers between the two metals to avoid direct contact.


How do you separate table salt aluminum filings iron filing?

You can separate table salt from aluminum filings and iron filings by using a magnet to attract the iron filings, which are magnetic. The remaining mixture of table salt and aluminum filings can then be separated by dissolving the salt in water and filtering out the aluminum filings, as aluminum does not dissolve in water.


Why is aluminum non-ferrous?

Aluminum is considered non-ferrous because it does not contain significant amounts of iron. It is a lightweight metal that does not rust or corrode easily, making it valuable in various industries. Additionally, its properties make it useful for applications where non-magnetic materials are required.


What metals corrode in air?

Metals such as iron, steel, and aluminum can corrode in air due to the presence of oxygen and moisture, forming rust or other types of corrosion. Other metals, like gold and platinum, are more resistant to corrosion in air due to their chemical stability.

Related questions

Why does moisture and oxygen make cars corrode?

It's a chemical reaction: bare metals + Oxygen +water = Oxidized metal. Example: Iron +water +oxygen =iron oxide or rust. Aluminum + oxygen +water = Aluminum hydroxide. These are naturally occuring reactions.


Does iron corrode quickly in water?

Yes, iron can corrode quickly in water, especially if it is not protected with a coating. The presence of oxygen and electrolytes in water can accelerate the process of iron oxidation, leading to the formation of rust.


What can corrode?

iron


Can Mercury rust?

No, mercury does not rust. Rust is the formation of iron oxide due to oxidation of iron, or any alloy containing iron. Other metals, such as aluminum and nickel will corrode and turn greenish. Since mercury is not a solid at room temperature, corrosion as defined doesnt really happen either. But just like alot of other elements, mercury does oxidize.


Does aluminum rust in water?

No. However, it does corrode. Corrosion often results from salts and contaminants which leach into the aluminum (oxide) surface. Anodizing is a way of putting an artificial oxide coating on the aluminum. This coating is then often dyed and sealed to protect it. Protected aluminum is pretty good stuff and doesn't corrode if given a little bit of care. Natural aluminum also develops the same sort of coating (which is clear so it is hard to see), but it is more porous and fragile compared to anodized coatings.


What metals are best resistant in salt water?

Metals that corrode in salt water easily include iron and tin.


Does water affect pennies?

Yes, water can cause pennies to corrode over time, especially if they are exposed to moisture for a prolonged period. The water can react with the copper in the penny, forming a greenish layer called patina. Additionally, water can also cause the zinc core of modern pennies to corrode and create a white, powdery substance on the surface.


Does electrolysis occur between aluminum and galvanised iron?

Yes, electrolysis can occur between aluminum and galvanized iron when they come into direct contact with each other in the presence of an electrolyte (such as water or saltwater). This can lead to galvanic corrosion, where the more noble aluminum acts as the cathode and the less noble galvanized iron acts as the anode, causing the iron to corrode. To prevent this, it is important to use appropriate insulation or barriers between the two metals to avoid direct contact.


How do you separate table salt aluminum filings iron filing?

You can separate table salt from aluminum filings and iron filings by using a magnet to attract the iron filings, which are magnetic. The remaining mixture of table salt and aluminum filings can then be separated by dissolving the salt in water and filtering out the aluminum filings, as aluminum does not dissolve in water.


Why is aluminum non-ferrous?

Aluminum is considered non-ferrous because it does not contain significant amounts of iron. It is a lightweight metal that does not rust or corrode easily, making it valuable in various industries. Additionally, its properties make it useful for applications where non-magnetic materials are required.


What does iron have to be exposed to for oxidation to occur?

Iron needs to be exposed to oxygen in the presence of water for oxidation to occur. This combination of oxygen and water causes iron to rust or corrode, forming iron oxide on its surface.


Which one of these are most likely to float on water is it a lead bar an iron nail or aluminum?

Aluminum.