Rust & Oxidation

By Nalani Maxwell
What is Oxidation?

Oxidation is the transformation of a substance
as a result of bonding with Oxygen. In Iron,
the transformed substance is called Rust.
How does Rust happen?
Rust occurs when an Iron combines with
Oxygen and creates the molecule known as
Iron Oxide or Fe2O3 (2 Iron Atoms with 3 Oxygen
Atoms.)
Iron
Iron
Oxygen
Oxygen
Oxygen
Why does Rust happen?
Iron is an element that readily gives up its
electrons.
Oxygen in the atmosphere (and in water) is
attracted to elements that have electrons to
share.
If Iron is left unprotected, oxygen will naturally
be attracted to bond.
In this example, Oxygen needs to bond with 2
electrons to become a stable molecule.
Oxygen
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Iron has 26 electrons and readily shares them.
Iron
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Salt and acids help facilitate the oxidization
process in Iron and many metals.
This is because both salt and acid are
electrolytes which simply means they
help electrons to travel.
Thats why cars and
other metal objects
rust when near the
ocean.
What else does Oxidation effect?
Oxidation occurs in many different things, not
just metals, including:
Organic items like fruits and
vegetables. When you cut an
apple and it turns brown,
this is from oxidation.
Living tissue can oxidize causing
inflammation, aging, and even cancer in
humans.
How to prevent Oxidation
Oxidation in metals can be
stopped by preventing
contact with Oxygen.
This is commonly done with
oils and lubricants that coat
the surface of metals.
Oxidation in living tissue can be
slowed by taking anti-oxidants
such as Vitamin C.
Conclusion
Most metals by nature are returning to their
original ore state via oxidation.
Oxidation affects more than just metal. Living and
dead organic matter is also affected by Oxidation.
Oxidation can be slowed or even prevented
with surface protectants or anti-oxidants.
Pictures
http://www.commonnail.com/commonnails/ironnails.html
http://science.howstuffworks.com/science-vs-myth/everyday-myths/rusty-nail-tetanus.htm
http://blog.1aauto.com/2010/10/04/rpotd-1966-pontiac-bonneville/
http://www.drinktruewater.com/True_Water_-_Liquid_Antioxidant.html
http://www.wpclipart.com/tools/lawn_garden/oil_can.png.html
http://www.vectorart.com/store/index.cfm?q=oil%20can
http://www.15minutebeauty.com/2012/01/vitamin-c-in-skin-care-how-does-it-work.html
Referenced information
http://science.howstuffworks.com/question445.htm (Iron Oxide)
http://apps.echa.europa.eu/registered/data/dossiers/DISS-9ea4fafe-9d48-4fe0-e044-
00144f67d031/DISS-9ea4fafe-9d48-4fe0-e044-00144f67d031_DISS-9ea4fafe-9d48-4fe0-
e044-00144f67d031.html (Iron Oxide bond)
http://sciencenetlinks.com/lessons/the-transfer-of-energy-3/ (thermochemistry)
http://www.natap.org/2009/HIV/052109_01.htm (Tissue Oxidation)