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Chapter 3: Problem 10

State two ways to prevent the rusting of iron.

Short Answer

Expert verified
Coat with paint or oil, and galvanize by applying a zinc layer.

Step by step solution

01

Introduction to Rusting

Rusting is a chemical process where iron reacts with oxygen and water to form iron oxide. This process can weaken iron structures.
02

Method 1 - Coating with Paints or Oil

One way to prevent rusting is by applying a layer of paint, oil, or grease on the iron surface. This coating prevents air and moisture from coming in direct contact with the iron.
03

Method 2 - Galvanization

Another method is galvanization, which involves coating the iron with a layer of zinc. Zinc acts as a protective barrier and also reacts with oxygen to form a protective layer of zinc oxide, further preventing rust.

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Key Concepts

These are the key concepts you need to understand to accurately answer the question.

Chemical Process
Rusting is a common problem for iron structures and items. It happens because of a chemical process known as oxidation. When iron comes into contact with oxygen and water, it reacts to form iron oxide, also known as rust. This process not only leaves a reddish-brown stain but also weakens the structure of the iron. To understand rusting on a deeper level, consider it similar to a slow-burning fire. It's an oxidation reaction, just like how wood burns when it catches fire, but much slower.
Coating with Paints
One effective way to prevent rusting is by coating the iron surface with paints, oils, or grease. This process creates a physical barrier between the iron and the surrounding moisture and air.
  • Paints: Applying a layer of paint helps to keep the iron dry and protected from oxygen. It is a simple and commonly used method.
  • Oil and Grease: Just like paints, oil and grease also form a protective film over the iron. This is particularly helpful for moving parts like hinges or machinery, where friction could otherwise wear away paint.
The key idea here is to block out the elements that cause rust - oxygen and water.
Galvanization
Galvanization is another highly effective method to prevent rusting. This process involves coating iron or steel with a layer of zinc.
  • Protective Barrier: Zinc acts as a shield by covering the iron surface and keeping moisture and oxygen away.
  • Zinc Oxide Formation: Even if the zinc coating is scratched, zinc reacts with oxygen to form zinc oxide, which itself is a protective layer that prevents further corrosion.
Galvanization not only protects iron through a physical barrier but also provides a chemical defense by forming zinc oxide. This makes it one of the best ways to ensure long-lasting protection against rust.

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Most popular questions from this chapter

Give reasons (a) Platinum, gold and silver are used to make jewellery. (b) Sodium, potassium and lithium are stored under oil. (c) Aluminium is a highly reactive metal, yet it is used to make utensils for cooking. (d) Carbonate and sulphide ores are usually converted into oxides during the process of extraction.

Food cans are coated with tin and not with zinc because (a) zinc is costlier than tin. (b) zinc has a higher melting point than tin. (c) zinc is more reactive than tin. (d) zinc is less reactive than tin.

Which of the following methods is suitable for preventing an iron frying pan from rusting? (a) Applying grease (b) Applying paint (c) Applying a coating of zinc (d) All of the above.

\text { What are amphoteric oxides? Give two examples of amphoteric oxides. }

You must have seen tarnished copper vessels being cleaned with lemon or tamarind juice. Explain why these sour substances are effective in cleaning the vessels.
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