Corrosion Corrosion is a chemical reaction that takes place when metals react with their environment. The most common form of corrosion occurs when metals react with oxygen in the air. Corrosion changes the properties of the metal so it may no longer be suitable for its use. For example, iron is a very strong metal but iron oxide (rust) is a brittle substance that crumbles easily.
Extended Investigation 1. Design an experiment to investigate what factors cause a piece of iron to rust.
2. Design a second experiment to investigate what factors can prevent or slow down rusting.
Properties of non-metallic elements and compounds Non-metals are usually: Have low boiling and melting points (more likely to be gases or liquids at room temperature) Poor conductors of heat Poor conductors of electricity Dull (not shiny)
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Science in Society Sources and uses of metals
Metals are all around us and are used for a wide range of purposes. Choose a metal and find out the following. 1. Where it is found as a natural resource. 2. How it is extracted. 3. What it is used for. 4. Any negative effects caused by its extraction and/or use.
Possible metals to research include gold, mercury, copper, iron and cobalt.
Research this Curious carbon
Carbon is a non-metal that can exist in several forms including diamond and graphite. In both of these forms carbon displays some of the properties of metals. Find out what properties graphite has in common with metals and what properties diamond has in common with metals.
Fig. 4 Different forms of carbon. 249
Fig. 3 Bingham Canyon copper mine, USA.
Fig. 2 A rusty chair.
Corrosion is the deterioration of a metal as a result of chemical reactions between it and the surrounding environment.
