This is a two-part investigation into the chemical concepts that underlie corrosion and our attempts to inhibit it. In the laboratory portion of this activity, students investigate the corrosion of iron, steel, aluminum, and zinc metal. They investigate the impact of factors such as salinity, coatings, and contact with other metals on rust and corrosion. Students also complete a reading that describes some conditions that affects the rate of corrosion of iron and steel and several chemical principles associated with these conditions. The activity concludes with a discussion of the impact of corrosion on materials and the environment.

Kit Contents:

100 x 3.25oz Plastic Cups and Lids
48 x Iron Nails
24 x Packets of Salt
12 x Stainless Steel Nails
12 x Aluminum Nails
12 x Galvanized Nails
12 x Pieces of Steel Wool
6 x 10cm (4”) Pieces of 20-gauge Copper Wire
6 x 10cm (4”) Pieces of Magnesium Ribbon
6 x 10cm x 2cm (4” x 1”) Pieces of Aluminum Foil
6 x 30mL Graduated Cups
6 x Tweezers
6 x Plastic Spoons
6 x Pieces of Sand Paper
6 x Magnifying Lenses
2 x Denatured Ethyl Alcohol, 60mL Bottle
1 x Cooking Oil, 30mL Bottle
28 x Student Worksheets and Guides
1 x Teacher’s Guide with MSDS