metal definitions (1 Viewer)

mushroom_head

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What's the difference between a passivating metal and an active metal? i couldn't really find a clear definition in my text books
 

gershy

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A passivating metal is one which reacts with the atmosphere, usually oxygen, to form a surface layer which is impermeable and therefore prevents further reaction e.g. aluminium, zinc. An active metal like iron on the other hand reacts with oxygen and water but the surface layer is porous so corrosion continues until eventually it all crumbles away.
 

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