Corrosion is a natural process that involves the deterioration of materials, typically metals, due to chemical reactions with their environment. This often occurs through oxidation, where metals react with oxygen and moisture, leading to rusting or the formation of other compounds. Corrosion can significantly weaken structures and components, resulting in safety hazards and increased maintenance costs. Preventive measures include coatings, alloying, and cathodic protection to slow down or inhibit the corrosion process.