Question

What are the adverse effects of corrosion?

Answer 1

We know that the process in which metal is damaged is known as corrosion. During corrosion, various compounds like oxide, hydroxide, sulphide, etc. are formed. Corrosion is a naturally occurring process.

Complete answer:
We know that corrosion is a process in which the chemical composition of a metal changes when the metal is exposed to external conditions. The physical as well as chemical properties of the metal change is the metal corrodes.
Corrosion generally occurs on the surface of the metal. Corrosion occurs due to prolonged exposure of the metal to air which consists of a mixture of various gases.
The adverse effects of corrosion are as follows:
1. Corrosion causes contamination of the product.
2. Corrosion makes the metal less efficient.
3. Corrosion damages metallic equipment.
4. Corrosion damages the commercial airplanes which can cause in-flight problems.
5. Corrosion damages oil pipelines that can cause ruptures in the pipelines and thus damage the environment.
6. Corrosion damages water pipelines which can lead to leakages and wastage of water.
7. Corrosion damages the bridge supports which may lead to bridge failure.
8. Corrosion of iron releases harmful pollutants thus polluting the air.
9. Corrosion can cause accidents due to mechanical loss of metallic cars, aircrafts, etc.

Note:
The most common example of corrosion is the rusting of iron metal. Rusting of iron occurs when iron is exposed to air or moisture. When iron comes in contact with air or moisture, it reacts with the oxygen in the air to form iron oxide. The iron oxide is reddish-brown in colour.