2007-02-17 23:52:29 · 3 answers · asked by goldengal 2 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Chemistry
Both Aluminum and Iron tend to oxidize, especially in moist air. Aluminum oxide sticks to the surface of the Aluminum metal providing some protection. Iron oxide (rust) tends to flake off the surface of the metal, exposing new metal for the air to oxidize.
2007-02-18 00:40:55 · answer #1 · answered by Richard 7 · 12⤊ 0⤋
in spite of the reality that aluminum is chemically very energetic, it does no longer corrode in moist air the way iron does. quite, it rapidly kinds a skinny, troublesome coating of aluminum oxide. compared to iron oxide or rust, which flakes off, the aluminum oxide sticks tightly to the metallic and protects it from added oxidation. The oxide coating is so skinny that it is clear, so the aluminum keeps its silvery metallic visual attraction. Sea water, besides the undeniable fact that, will corrode aluminum till that is been given an highly thick coating of oxide through the anodizing procedure.
2016-12-04 08:04:42 · answer #2 · answered by ? 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
There is a thin protective layer of insoluble aluminium oxide on all samples of the metal. This tends to slow down further oxidation.
2007-02-18 00:19:32 · answer #3 · answered by Gervald F 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋