Science glossary film: Corrosion

The degrading of the exposed surface of materials, in particular metals. The rusting of iron is one example, and requires both water and oxygen to be present. In general, the more reactive the metal, the more quickly it corrodes. Aluminum is an exception: if corroded, the oxide of aluminum forms a protective layer over the aluminum surface, stopping further corrosion.

The rusting of iron is one example, and requires both water and oxygen to be present. In general, the more reactive the metal, the more quickly it corrodes. Aluminum is an exception: if corroded, the oxide of aluminum forms a protective layer over the aluminum surface, stopping further corrosion.