Login

The number of water molecules in rust is variable. What does this mean?

Rusting of iron (Fe) is caused by oxidation of Fe to form Fe2O3  (Iron (III) oxide)

 Rust is also denoted as Fe2O3.nH2O which is Hydrated Iron (III) Oxide.

'n' denotes the  presence of 'water of hydration' and may vary according to conditions.

for further explanation see:

https://www.meritnation.com/ask-answer/question/why-in-fe2o3-nh2o-the-number-of-water-molecules-in-rust-is/metals-and-non-metals/2739927

  • 0
View Full Answer

The basic chemistry involved in rusting is a combining of the iron atoms with oxygen from the air. However, the reactions behind rust are complicated and involve not only oxygen but water as well. This explains why wet metals rust much more quickly than ones that are kept dry.

hope this helps if yes then thumbs up
  • 0
What are you looking for?