[Chemistry Class Notes] on Difference between Rusting and Corrosion Pdf for Exam

Rusting and corrosion both are oxidation reactions. Corrosion occurs over a wide range of objects while rusting is limited as it occurs only on iron. We can say rusting is a type of corrosion or the most common example of corrosion as rusting of iron objects is very commonly found.

Rusting v/s Corrosion

Rusting and Corrosion are often used indistinguishably. As corrosion and rust are both a result of oxidation reactions. Then also there are some differences between them which make them different from each other.

Furthermore to understand the difference between Rusting and Corrosion; let’s first look at the concept of Rusting and Corrosion. Also, the students who want to get knowledge about Rusting v/s Corrosion can join an online class.

What is Rusting? 

Rusting is the oxidation of iron or iron objects. It takes place in the presence of air and moisture. It is a slow process. Due to rusting, rust is formed on iron objects. It is a red-orange coloured iron oxide that is formed by the oxidation of iron in presence of oxygen and moisture or water.

Reactions involved can be written as follows –

4Fe + 3O₂ ? 2Fe₂O₃

2Fe₂O₃ + xH₂O ? Fe₂O₃.xH₂O

                                Rust 

What is Corrosion? 

Corrosion is the oxidation of metals and non-metals which results in destruction and unintentional degradation of materials by its environment. It forms oxides, hydroxides, and sulphides of the elements present in the material. 

The most common example of corrosion is rusting. Here, the colour and the quality of the steel are changed.

Difference between Corrosion and Rusting 

What is Rancidity?

Generally, students get confused between corrosion and rancidity. Rancidity is different from corrosion although it is also an oxidation reaction. Rancidity is the oxidation of fats and oils present in food materials due to which the smell and taste of the food material change.

We can prevent it by adding antioxidants and keeping food in airtight containers.

Prevention from Corrosion, Rusting, and Rancidity 

• Prevention from Corrosion – Following methods can be used to prevent corrosion –

• By putting barrier coatings such as paint, plastics, etc. on the surface of the materials. 

• The hot-dip galvanization process can be used. 

• We can form alloys to prevent them from corrosion. 

• Cathodic protection can be used. 

• Prevention from Rusting – Following methods can be used to prevent rusting –

• Keep steel and iron objects clean and dry and away from moisture, air. 

• By applying a protective coating.

• By using alloys of iron instead of pure iron. 

• By galvanization. 

• By forming a layer of ferric oxide using potassium nitrate and sodium hydroxide. 

• Prevention from Rancidity – Following methods can be used to prevent rancidity 

• By using inert gases in packaging. 

• By using oxygen scavengers. 

• By refrigeration of food materials. 

• By storing food materials in a hot-dip dark place. 

• By using airtight containers. 

• By using vacuum packaging.

• By using anti-oxidants.

We hope it will help you to understand the difference between corrosion and rancidity. Still, if you have any doubt don’t hesitate to join the doubting class on . You can also register yourself on or download the learning app for Class 6-10, IITJEE and NEET to get access to free PDFs of NCERT Solutions, Study materials, and much more.