In corrosion, a metal is oxidized into a metal oxide. This process involves the metal reacting with substances in its environment, typically oxygen or moisture, leading to the formation of a metal oxide on the surface of the metal.
Here's a breakdown of what happens in corrosion:
1. When a metal comes into contact with oxygen or moisture, it undergoes oxidation, where electrons are lost from the metal atoms. This results in the formation of metal ions.
2. The metal ions then combine with oxygen to form metal oxides. For example, when iron corrodes, it forms iron oxide (rust).
3. The formation of metal oxides weakens the metal, causing it to deteriorate over time and potentially leading to structural damage.
In conclusion, in the process of corrosion, a metal is oxidized into a metal oxide due to its reaction with oxygen or moisture in the environment. This leads to the deterioration of the metal over time.
