The Corrosion Of Iron.

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Chemistry 12 Assignment: The Corrosion of Iron. Alexander Ferguson Mr. Mortimer Block D Irons, and iron alloys, are the most common metals and ferromagnetic materials in everyday use. In fact, due to its low cost and high strength, it accounts for 95 % of worldwide metal production. It has great use in the construction of machinery, automobiles, ship, and bridges. When produced, iron surfaces are silver-grey; once exposed to air, iron is very susceptible to corrosion. This process costs the industry billions of dollars annually, so it is no mystery that there is lots of money invested to control corrosion. In order to prevent corrosion we must first understand the chemistry behind the corrosion of Iron. The Corrosion of Iron Corrosion refers to the process in which metals are converted to their oxides or other compounds. In iron this process is gradual, and continually weakens the iron. Rust likely occurs when the metal is in the presence of moist air. The formation of rust can be generalized as follows: Obviously, the formation of rust is much more complicated. First Hydroxide ions are formed: Then Fe2+ ions: A redox reaction occurs, forming Fe3+ ions: As the Fe3+(aq) ions are formed, it reacts with OH-1(aq) to form the insoluble Fe(OH)3(s): Fe(OH)3(s) then dehydrates to form Fe2O3(s): Since the first step involves the formation of hydroxide ions, this process is accelerated at a low pH. Something that is invaluable to know with trying to prevent the corrosion of iron. Preventing Iron Corrosion Three possible methods to prevent iron corrosion are hot-dip galvanization, passivation, and cathodic protection. Hot-dip Galvanization Hot-dip galvanization is the process or coating iron with a thin zinc layer, by passing the iron

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