Study of the Effect of Metal Coupling on the Rusting of Iron
Name: Jensi Patel
Class: 12A
School: Mahapragya Vidhya Niketan
Topic: Study of effect of metal coupling on the rusting of iron
Abstract
This study investigates how coupling iron with different metals affects the rate of rusting. Rusting is an
electrochemical process that occurs more rapidly in the presence of moisture and oxygen. Coupling iron with
other metals can either accelerate or retard rusting depending on the metal's reactivity. This experiment helps
determine which metals protect iron and which promote corrosion.
Introduction
Rusting of iron is a common problem that leads to the deterioration of iron-based materials. It is a redox
reaction where iron reacts with oxygen and water to form iron oxide (rust). The rate of rusting can be
influenced by environmental factors and the presence of other metals. This study aims to explore the
electrochemical principles behind metal coupling (galvanic corrosion) and determine how different metals
affect the rusting rate of iron.
Theory
When two dissimilar metals are in contact in an electrolyte, the more reactive metal acts as the anode and
corrodes, while the less reactive one becomes the cathode and is protected. This is the principle of galvanic
corrosion. Metals like zinc protect iron, while metals like copper may accelerate corrosion.
Materials Required
Study of the Effect of Metal Coupling on the Rusting of Iron
- Iron nails
- Strips of Zinc, Copper, Aluminium
- Beakers
- Distilled water
- Salt (NaCl)
- Sandpaper
- Thread
- Measuring cylinder
Procedure
1. Clean the iron nails and metal strips with sandpaper.
2. Prepare four beakers with 100 mL of 5% salt solution.
3. In each beaker:
- Beaker A: Iron nail alone (control)
- Beaker B: Iron nail coupled with zinc strip
- Beaker C: Iron nail coupled with copper strip
- Beaker D: Iron nail coupled with aluminium strip
4. Leave the setups undisturbed for 3-5 days.
5. Observe and record rust formation daily.
Observations
Beaker A (None): Moderate rusting - Normal rusting
Beaker B (Zinc): Least rusting - Zinc protects iron (sacrificial anode)
Beaker C (Copper): Most rusting - Copper accelerates rusting
Study of the Effect of Metal Coupling on the Rusting of Iron
Beaker D (Aluminium): Low rusting - Some protection, less than zinc
Conclusion
Rusting of iron is significantly affected by the metal it is coupled with. Zinc, being more reactive, provides
cathodic protection to iron. Copper, being less reactive, increases iron's corrosion rate. This demonstrates
galvanic corrosion and highlights the importance of choosing metals wisely to prevent rust.
Applications
- Galvanization of iron to prevent rust
- Use of sacrificial anodes in ships and pipelines
- Material selection in construction and manufacturing
Precautions
- Ensure metals are clean and free from rust before starting
- Keep experimental conditions consistent
- Handle materials with clean hands or gloves
