Why Does Rust Form?
Ever walked up to a playground and seen a rusty brown slide? How does that happen?
Rust is the term usually used to refer to a reddish-brown compound called iron oxide. Rust is formed when iron and oxygen react with water in the air. Rust is very common because iron and its alloys — such as steel — react incredibly easily with oxygen.
Rust is actually a form of corrosion. Oxygen and water cause iron to corrode. Given enough time, any piece of iron can completely disintegrate.
There are also certain thinks that can speed up the rusting process. For example, if there is more water, there is more rust. Salt is also one thing that can speed up the process.
How can you prevent rust?
To prevent rust, you just have to prevent oxygen and water from reaching the iron. You can do this in a few different ways.
One of these ways is to apply a protective zinc layer in a process called galvanization. Another very popular way of preventing rust is by applying a layer of paint. This blocks the iron from reacting with oxygen and water, and so it prevents rust.
