The oxidation of iron to rust is a problem structural engineers need to be concerned about,but the oxidation of aluminum to aluminum oxide is not so much of a problem.Why?
A)Since aluminum is so light and inexpensive,it is easily replaced when corroded.
B)Aluminum oxide is insoluble in water and thus forms a protective coating that prevents continued oxidation of the aluminum.
C)Aluminum oxide is even stronger than aluminum.
D)The oxidation of aluminum is a very slow reaction,taking hundreds of years before any structural changes are noticed.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Aluminum oxide forms a protective coating that prevents continued oxidation of the aluminum. This coating is insoluble in water, which further protects the aluminum from corrosion. Therefore, the oxidation of aluminum to aluminum oxide is not as much of a problem for structural engineers as the oxidation of iron to rust.

The Oxidation of Iron to Rust Is a Problem Structural