Is Ferric Oxide Protective or Not?

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In summary, the conversation discusses the different properties of Fe2O3 in regards to its protective abilities in the presence of strong oxidising agents and in the presence of oxygen, water, and hydrogen ions. It is noted that Fe2O3 can act as a protective coating in some conditions, such as with concentrated nitric acid, but not in others, such as with sea water. This suggests that the protective property of Fe2O3 may vary depending on the specific conditions it is exposed to.
  • #1
mooncrater
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Homework Statement


There are two lines in my textbook :
" Iron is passivated by strong oxidising agents like conc.##HNO_3,K_2Cr_2O_7## due to the formation of a protective coat of ##Fe_2O_3##."
And the other line says:
"Rusting occurs in the presence of ##O_2,H_2O## and ##H^+## resulting in the formation of ##Fe_2O_3## which is not protective and the corrosion continues"
Whats this? One line says that ##Fe_2O_3## is protective and other says it is not !

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution


Can it be the reason that protective property of ##Fe_2O_3## is different for different conditions?
 
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  • #2
mooncrater said:
Can it be the reason that protective property of ##Fe_2O_3## is different for different conditions?

Apparently. Concentrated nitric acid is safely transported in steel tanks, as the iron from these tanks gets passivated and doesn't dissolve in the acid. Same steel will rust if put in sea water.
 
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FAQ: Is Ferric Oxide Protective or Not?

Is ferric oxide considered a protective substance?

Yes, ferric oxide is considered a protective substance because it forms a thin layer on the surface of iron or steel, preventing further corrosion and protecting the metal from rusting.

How does ferric oxide protect against corrosion?

Ferric oxide, also known as rust, forms a stable layer on the surface of iron or steel when exposed to oxygen and moisture. This layer acts as a barrier, preventing oxygen and moisture from reaching the metal and causing corrosion.

Can ferric oxide prevent corrosion indefinitely?

No, ferric oxide can only protect against corrosion for a certain amount of time. Eventually, the layer of rust will continue to grow and can cause flaking or cracking, exposing the metal to further corrosion.

Is there a difference between ferric oxide and rust?

Technically, ferric oxide is the chemical compound Fe2O3, while rust is a general term used to describe the process of corrosion on iron or steel. However, in practical terms, ferric oxide and rust are often used interchangeably.

Can ferric oxide be used as a protective coating for other metals?

Yes, ferric oxide can be used as a protective coating for other metals such as aluminum and copper. It forms a similar barrier against corrosion and can extend the lifespan of these metals.

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