Difference between oxidation and corrosion

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In this equation, iron (Fe) reacts with oxygen (O₂) to form iron oxide (Fe₂O₃), which is rust.

Common examples of oxidation in everyday life
Oxidation is a ubiquitous process that occurs in many everyday situations and whose effects are often noticeable:

Rust of iron and steel:
When iron or steel is exposed to oxygen and moisture, it reacts to form a reddish-brown substance called rust, which is mainly composed of iron oxide. This is a typical case of oxidation leading to the destruction of metal objects such as tools, vehicles, and structures.

Silver tarnishing:
Silverware and ornaments are other products that can become email dataset rusty due to oxidation. This is because when exposed to air, silver reacts with sulfur compounds, resulting in the formation of silver sulfide, which is black in color and adheres to the surface of the metal.

2Ag+ H2S → Ag2S + H2

It is essential to differentiate between oxidation and corrosion, although they are often used interchangeably. Oxidation is a type of chemical reaction in which a compound loses electrons, often in the presence of oxygen. It can occur in both organic and inorganic compounds. It is a broader process that can be useful, for example, in the combustion process that produces energy or in the formation of oxide layers on certain metals such as aluminum.

On the other hand, corrosion is the degradation of a material, especially metals, by chemical action with the surrounding environment. It is important to note that while oxidation is a type of corrosion, for example, rusting of iron, there are other types of corrosion, including the effects of acids, bases, moisture, and salts. In addition, corrosion is linked to undesirable implications such as material failure, losses, and potential hazards. Knowledge of oxidation and corrosion is crucial in various application areas, as it helps to find ways to mitigate material deterioration.

Main differences and effects of oxidation and corrosion
Although oxidation and corrosion are related, they are two different processes with different effects on materials. Oxidation is a chemical process in which a substance loses electrons, usually through oxygen, and can occur in both organic and inorganic materials. It is a broader process that can be constructive, as in ignition processes during combustion or the formation of an oxide layer on metals such as aluminum.