Question
Which of the following best explains why painting iron stops it from rusting? Enter your answer as a number 1 The paint does not prevent rust; it only covers it up. The paint reacts with the iron to give an unreactive alloy that does not rust. The paint is more reactive than the iron so it is oxidised instead. The layer of paint stops oxygen and water from 4 reaching the iron.
Answer
4.2
(368 Votes)
Venetia
Professional · Tutor for 6 years
Answer
4.
Explanation
## Step 1:To prevent rust formation in iron, one has to keep it from reacting with oxygen and moisture in the surrounding environment. Rusting is an oxidation reaction where iron (Fe) reacts with oxygen (O2) in presence of water (H2O) to form rust, which is hydrated iron (III) oxide (Fe2O3.nH2O). ## Step 2: Considering this, observe that only "(4) The layer of paint stops oxygen and water from reaching the iron." best describes how a coat of paint can effectively prevent the rusting of iron. Painting iron creates a barrier that obstructs direct contact between iron and atmospheric oxygen and water, halting the oxidation (rusting) process.### Key Formula:The key reaction involved in rust formation is**2Fe(s)+ O2(g) + 2H2O(l)=2Fe2O3. nH2O(s)** ,