What Happens When Iron Reacts With Oxygen?
Quick Answer
Iron rusts when it comes in contact with oxygen and water. It rusts faster in acid rain and salty water. Both oxygen and water are necessary for rusting, which is an oxidation reaction.
Continue Reading
Full Answer
When iron reacts with oxygen and water, it forms hydrated iron oxide; this is what people see as rust. Oxidation refers to reactions wherein a substance loses electrons and increases its positive charge. In the case of iron, it loses its electrons to oxygen. In an oxidation reaction, electrons are transferred from one substance to another. The electrons of iron are transferred to oxygen when iron is found in the presence of oxygen.
Water is essential for oxidation to occur, as it facilitates the transfer of electrons. When water hits iron, two things occur almost immediately. First, water combines with carbon dioxide to produce a weak carbonic acid. As the iron dissolves and acid forms, some of the water breaks down into its basic components, oxygen and hydrogen. Oxygen and iron bond into iron oxide, releasing electrons in the process.
Rusting does not easily occur in places where the air is dry most of the time. However, in humid climates, iron rusts faster because the air contains plenty of water droplets. Acid rain and water that contains salt speed up the process of rusting.
Learn more about ChemistryRelated Questions
-
Q:
Why Does Steel Rust?
A: Steel rusts because of chemical reactions that occur when it comes into contact with water and oxygen. Iron, one component of steel, combines with water an... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
Is Iron Water or Fat Soluble?
A: Iron can be water soluble or water insoluble depending on the ionic state of iron and the compounds that it forms. Following the general solubility rules, ... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
What Conditions Cause Iron Nails to Rust Faster?
A: Elevated temperature, immersion in a humid and oxygen rich environment, contact with a metal that is lower in the electrochemical series, and mechanical ag... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
How Does Rust Form?
A: Rust forms on iron due to an oxidation reaction that occurs when it comes into contact with oxygen and water. The reaction of iron, oxygen and water forms ... Full Answer >Filed Under:
