U nit

13 Corrosion of metals and

their protection

13.1 What is corrosion?

Unit Key Concepts
• The necessary
conditions for rusting ✓ The deterioration of a metal due to its reaction with oxygen,
• Factors that speed up moisture or other substances in the environment is called
the rusting process corrosion.

• How to prevent rusting

• Corrosion resistance When a metal corrodes, it loses its shine. If the corrosion is serious,
of aluminium and the metal may break. Fig. 13.1 shows a corroded gate.
aluminium anodization
Unreactive metals generally corrode slowly. For example, copper
corrodes slowly. Gold is so unreactive that it does not corrode at all
(Fig. 13.2).

Fig. 13.1 A corroded gate Fig. 13.2 This giant Buddha is covered
with gold in leaf form so it
does not corrode

◀ 13.2 Corrosion of iron: rusting

In hydrated iron(III) oxide, the
number of water molecules The corrosion of iron is called rusting. Rust is the reddish-brown crust
which combine with one that forms on the surface of the iron. Its chemical name is hydrated
formula unit of Fe2O3 varies. iron(III) oxide (Fe2O3•xH2O◀). Rust flakes off the surface of the iron
Therefore x is used to represent easily. A fresh iron surface is then exposed and so the rusting goes
the number of water molecules. on until the whole piece of iron is disintegrated.

corrosion 腐蝕　　rusting 生銹　　rust 銹

114 Topic 3  Metals

13.1 Rusting is a slow process. It usually takes several days for rusting
Investigating the necessary to occur.
conditions for rusting.

Conditions necessary for rusting to occur

We can use the experimental set-up shown in Fig. 13.3 to investigate
the conditions necessary for rusting to occur. The iron nails are left
in three different environments.

BOIZESPVT
BJS
DBMDJVN
DIMPSJEF MBZFS
PG
PJM
DPUUPO
XPPM CPJMFE
EJTUJMMFE

XBUFS
EJTUJMMFE
XBUFS

" # $
OP
SVTUJOH OP
SVTUJOH SVTUJOH
PDDVST

Fig. 13.3 Experimental set-up to investigate the conditions necessary for rusting to
occur

Table 13.1 summarizes the observations after one week.

Table 13.1
Observations of iron nail in different environments
after one week
Test Substances Has rusting
Environment
tube present occurred?
Anhydrous calcium chloride
is a drying agent and absorbs Iron and air
A No
moisture in the air inside the test (oxygen)
tube.
The distilled water is boiled to
drive away any oxygen dissolved
Iron and
B in it. The layer of oil on the No
water
water surface stops oxygen from
dissolving in the water again.
Iron,
The distilled water contains
C air (oxygen) Yes
dissolved oxygen.
and water
 Unit 13  Corrosion of metals and their protection 115

The results show that:

✓ For rusting to occur, two things must be present: air (oxygen)

and water.

What happens during rusting?

During rusting, iron atoms first lose electrons to form iron(II) ions.

Fe(s) Fe2+(aq) + 2e–

The electrons then combine with oxygen and water to form

hydroxide ions.
1 – –
O2(g) + H2O(l) + 2e 2OH (aq)
2
The iron(II) ions and hydroxide ions precipitate as iron(II)
hydroxide. Iron(II) hydroxide then reacts with dissolved oxygen to
form rust, which is hydrated iron(III) oxide (Fe2O3•xH2O).

We can represent the overall change by the following equation:

13.2 4Fe(s) + 3O2(g) + 2xH2O(l) 2Fe2O3•xH2O(s)

Investigating factors that rust
influence the speed of rusting
of iron.

13.3 What factors can speed up the

rusting process?
A number of factors can speed up the rusting process.

1 Presence of ionic substances  The rusting process speeds up

if the water present contains ionic substances such as sodium
chloride. Hence a seaside environment speeds up the rusting
process (Fig. 13.4) since the thin water layer on the iron surface
contains dissolved sodium chloride.

2 Presence of acidic pollutants  An industrial environment also

Fig. 13.4 A seaside environment speeds up the rusting process. This is due to the emission of acidic
speeds up the rusting gases from factories. These gases form acids with moisture in the
process of iron and steel air, thus speeding up the rusting process.
116 Topic 3  Metals

3 Higher temperature  At a higher temperature, chemical reaction

becomes faster. The rusting process becomes faster too. This is
why the exhaust pipes of cars rust quickly (Fig. 13.5).

4 Scratching or bending the surface  Rusting occurs more quickly

where the iron surface is scratched or bent.

5 Attachment to a less reactive metal  The rusting process speeds

up if the iron is in contact with a less reactive metal, such as tin
and copper. A food can is usually made of mild steel (an iron
alloy) coated with a thin layer of tin. When the tin coating of a
can is damaged, the steel rusts more quickly than when there is
no coating.
Fig. 13.5 The exhaust pipe of a car
rusts quickly

Practice 13.1
1 Explain the following phenomena:

a) Iron articles in a hot desert rust very slowly.

b) A ship that sunk to the seabed rusts very slowly.

2 The Statue of Liberty is made from copper skin attached to an iron frame.

Statue of Liberty

a) Why does the iron frame rust more quickly when attached to the copper skin?

b) The statue sits on an island surrounded by sea water. Why does the sea water increase the rate of
rusting?

c) Explain why green patches appear on the statue.

 Unit 13  Corrosion of metals and their protection 117

13.4 To observe rusting using a rust

indicator
◀ We can observe rusting using a rust indicator, a mixture of potassium
We will discuss phenolphthalein hexacyanoferrate(III) (K3Fe(CN)6) and phenolphthalein. Potassium
in Topic 4 Acids and Bases. hexacyanoferrate(III) gives a blue colour in the presence of iron(II)
ions. Phenolphthalein◀ gives a pink colour in the presence of excess
hydroxide ions.
◀
Notice that the nail is immersed To observe rusting, we place a nail in a gel◀ containing the indicator
in the gel before the gel sets. for one or two days (Fig. 13.6). Fig. 13.7 shows the results.

gel with potassium

hexacyanoferrate(III) blue colour shows the
petri dish
and phenolphthalein 2+
presence of Fe ions

iron nail
pink colour shows the
–
presence of OH ions

Fig. 13.6 To observe rusting using a rust indicator Fig. 13.7 The iron nail rusts. The blue colour shows the
2+
presence of Fe ions; the pink colour shows the
–
presence of OH ions

13.3
Investigating the effectiveness 13.5 How to prevent rusting?
of various ways to prevent
rusting. We are now going to discuss ways to prevent rusting. Most ways
involve coating the iron with something to keep out the oxygen
and water.

Using protective coatings

Coating iron articles with paint, oil, grease or plastic

Painting is a cheap and simple way of protecting iron from rusting. Cars,
ships, bridges and iron railings are all protected by painting (Fig. 13.8).
A layer of paint prevents both oxygen and water from reaching the
iron beneath. However, as soon as the paint is scratched, the metal
Fig. 13.8 Painting on the steel is exposed to air, and rusting starts (Fig. 13.9). Therefore painting is
frame of a bridge prevents not suitable for protecting the moving parts of machines.
rusting

rust indicator 鐵銹指示劑

118 Topic 3  Metals

TDSBUDIFE
QBJOU QBJOU

PYZHFO
BOE
XBUFS
PYZHFO
BOE
XBUFS

JSPO DBOOPU
SFBDI
JSPO
SFBDI
JSPO
SVTUJOH

OP
SVTUJOH
PDDVST PDDVST

Fig. 13.9 A layer of paint prevents both oxygen and water from reaching the iron
beneath

Oil or grease can also prevent oxygen and water from reaching the
iron. They are used to protect the moving parts of machines which
cannot be painted. Oil or grease serves as a lubricant also. However,
the oil or grease must be reapplied constantly. Thus, this method is
unsuitable for large structures.

Fig. 13.10 Iron paper clips coated Coating an iron article with plastic is more expensive than painting
with plastic (Fig. 13.10).

Tin-plating
A food can is usually made of mild steel coated with a thin layer of
tin (Fig. 13.11). This method is called tin-plating. The tin protects
the steel from both oxygen and water. Furthermore, tin ions are
non-poisonous.

Fig. 13.11 Food cans made of mild steel are coated with tin

tin-plating 鍍錫
 Unit 13  Corrosion of metals and their protection 119

Zinc-plating
Iron can be coated with a layer of zinc. Iron coated with zinc is called
galvanized iron and this method is called zinc-plating (Fig. 13.12).
The zinc layer protects the iron from oxygen and water. When the
zinc coating is damaged, zinc ‘sacrifices’ itself to protect the iron.
This is because zinc is more reactive than iron. Thus, zinc corrodes
instead of iron.

squatters

Fig. 13.12 The external parts of many squatters in Lei Yue Mun are made of
galvanized iron

However, galvanized iron is not suitable for making food cans

because zinc ions are poisonous.

Electroplating
◀ We can plate a very thin layer of metal on iron by an electrical process
We will further discuss called electroplating◀. Chromium and nickel plating can protect iron
electroplating in Topic 5 Redox from contacting with oxygen and water. This plating is not easily
Reactions, Chemical Cells and chipped off. Chromium-plated items look more attractive. However,
Electrolysis. the cost of chromium plating is quite high. Bumpers of cars◀ were
once chromium-plated (Fig. 13.13).
◀
Bumpers of cars are usually
made of plastic now.

Fig. 13.13 Chromium-plated bumpers can be found on many vintage cars

galvanized iron 鍍鋅鐵　　zinc-plating 鍍鋅　　squatter 寮屋　　electroplating 電鍍

120 Topic 3  Metals

Using sacrificial metals

When a lump of a more reactive metal is attached to a piece of iron,
the more reactive metal corrodes instead of iron. The more reactive
metal ‘sacrifices’ itself to prevent iron from rusting. This method is
thus called sacrificial protection.

Zinc and magnesium are two metals which are used in this way. An
underground pipeline and a ship’s hull is protected by joining a piece
of magnesium or zinc to it (Figs. 13.14–13.15). The sacrificial metals
must be replaced regularly before they corrode away completely.

JSPO
B
MVNQ
PG

QJQFMJOF [JOD

NFUBM
XJSF

Fig. 13.14 Zinc ‘sacrifices’ itself to Fig. 13.15 Pieces of zinc protect the
protect the underground ship’s hull from rusting
iron pipeline from rusting

Impressed current cathodic protection

◀ We can protect iron from rusting by connecting it to the negative
The electrode connected to terminal of a battery while a conductor such as graphite is connected
the negative terminal of the to the positive terminal◀ (Fig. 13.16). This supplies electrons to the
battery is called the cathode. iron and prevents the formation of iron(II) ions. This method is called
The electrode connected to the impressed current cathodic protection.
positive terminal is called the
anode. A car body is protected from rusting by connecting it to the
negative terminal of the car battery.

QPXFS

m  TVQQMZ

B
DPOEVDUPS

BOPEF

QSPUFDUFE
NFUBM

DBUIPEF

Fig. 13.16 An impressed current cathodic protection system

sacrificial protection 犧牲性保護　　impressed current cathodic protection 外加電流陰極保護

 Unit 13  Corrosion of metals and their protection 121

Using corrosion resisting alloys of iron

Stainless steel is an alloy made up of iron, chromium and nickel.
Stainless steel does not corrode easily (Fig. 13.17). Nickel and chromium
are much more expensive than iron. Therefore using alloys is the
most expensive way to prevent rusting. However, this method is the
best because no maintenance is needed.

Fig. 13.17 Cutlery made of stainless

steel

Example 13.1

The diagram below shows an experimental a) Blue and pink colours would be observed
set-up for investigating the factors affecting near the iron nail that rusts.
rusting.
When rusting occurs, both iron(II) ions and
JSPO
OBJM
$
GVMMZ
QMBUFE
XJUI
UJO
hydroxide ions are formed.
CVU
QBSU
PG
UIF
UJO
TDSBUDIFE
UP

HFM
DPOUBJOJOH
/B$M BR

FYQPTF
UIF
JSPO
VOEFSOFBUI K3Fe(CN)6(aq) gives a blue colour in the
,'F $/
 BR

BOE
presence of iron(II) ions. Phenolphthalein
QIFOPMQIUIBMFJO
gives a pink colour in the presence of excess
hydroxide ions.

JSPO
OBJM
"
XSBQQFE
b) Both iron nails A and B would not rust. Iron

XJUI
[JOD
SJCCPO JSPO
OBJM
#
TFBMFE
nail C would rust.
XJUI
HSFBTF
Iron nail A would not rust because zinc
provides sacrifical protection.
a) What would be observed if an iron nail
in the above set-up rusts? Explain your Iron nail B would not rust because it is
observation. sealed with grease. This prevents oxygen
and water from reaching the iron.
b) Decide whether each of the iron nails in the
above set-up would rust or not during the Iron nail C would rust because the exposed
experiment? Explain your answer in each iron is in contact with oxygen and water /
case. the exposed iron is in contact with tin (a
less reactive metal).

stainless steel 不銹鋼

122 Topic 3  Metals

Practice 13.2
1 Suggest the principle of the rust prevention method 2 The following diagram shows a system used in some
used in each of the following cases: piers for slowing down the rusting of steel pillars:

a) galvanized iron buckets – ED
QPXFS
+

TVQQMZ
b) greasing the steel gear system of a bicycle

c) tin-plating iron food cans

TUFFM
QJMMBS
d) painting an iron gate QMBUJOVN

TFB
XBUFS BMMPZ
e) attaching magnesium pieces to the hull of a
ship TFB
CFE

f) chromium-plated car bumpers

Suggest how the system can prevent steel pillars
from rusting.

13.6 Socioeconomic implications of

rusting
One important use of iron is to make steel. Steel is widely used as a
construction material in vehicles, machinery, bridges, pipelines, etc.

In our daily lives, we can easily see rusting on vehicle body panels,
outdoor furniture and metal tools. Rusting affects the useful service
lives of our possessions.

Rusting may endanger our safety. Rusting of reinforcing steel in

concrete may cause structural failures of highways, buildings and
bridges (Figs. 13.18–13.19). These can endanger public safety and
require significant repair costs.

Several studies over the past 30 years have shown that the annual
direct cost of corrosion to an industrial economy is approximately
3.1% of gross national product. In the United States, this amounts
to over US$276 billion per year.
 Unit 13  Corrosion of metals and their protection 123

Fig. 13.18 Rusting has made Fig. 13.19 Corroded reinforcing steel in
this bridge unsafe concrete

13.7 What is the most suitable

method to protect a particular
iron article from rusting?
We have learnt that there are different methods to protect iron
from rusting (Table 13.2). The methods are different both in their
effectiveness and cost.

Table 13.2
Different methods of protecting iron from rusting
Method Effectiveness of protection Appearance of finished product Relative cost
Painting fair colour of paint low
Plastic coating fair colour of plastic low
Tin-plating fairly good dull silvery medium
Zinc-plating good dull silvery medium
Chromium-plating good bright and shiny high
Alloying (e.g. using
excellent bright and shiny very high
stainless steel)

The following are some factors you should consider when choosing
the most suitable method to protect an iron item from rusting:

1 How long does the item need to last?

2 Where is the item used?

3 What is the item used for?

4 Is appearance important?

5 Is the cost high?

124 Topic 3  Metals

Decision Making
For each of the following cases, choose a method to protect the iron
or steel article from rusting. Give reason(s) for each choice.

1 To protect a bus stop sign.

2 To protect the base of an electric iron.

3 To protect the steel frame of a swing in a park.

4 To protect the body of an old car.

5 To protect steel scissor blades.

6 To protect a steel pencil-sharpener.

7 To protect steel railings along the pavement.

8 To protect a food can.

13.8 Corrosion resistance of

aluminium
When aluminium reacts with oxygen in the air, an even coating of
aluminium oxide forms. This oxide layer sticks firmly to the surface
of the metal and is impermeable to oxygen and water. It protects
the metal beneath from further attack (Fig. 13.20). The oxide layer
does not fall off. Rusting of iron is destructive but oxidation of the
aluminium surface is a useful process.

PYZHFO QSPUFDUJWF
MBZFS

PG
PYJEF

BMVNJOJVN BMVNJOJVN

TVSGBDF
BUUBDLFE
CZ

PYZHFO
JO
UIF
BJS

Fig. 13.20 When aluminium reacts with oxygen in the air, the oxide layer formed
sticks to the surface of the metal

impermeable 不能滲透的
 Unit 13  Corrosion of metals and their protection 125

Aluminium anodization
◀ ◀
Anodization is an electrolytic process used to increase the thickness
Notice that anodization CANNOT of the metal oxide layer on the surface of a metal part. The process
improve the strength of is called ‘anodization’ because the metal part to be treated forms the
aluminium. anode of the electric circuit.

Aluminium is anodized to increase its corrosion resistance and

surface hardness and to allow dyeing more easily. Anodized aluminium
is used for making masts (Fig. 13.21) for yachts and windsurfing
boards, window frames, cooking utensils, milk bottle caps, drink cans
(Fig. 13.22) and chocolate wrappings (Fig. 13.23).

Fig. 13.21 A mast made of anodized Fig. 13.22 Drink cans made of Fig. 13.23 Milk bottle caps and
aluminium anodized aluminium chocolate wrappings made
of anodized aluminium

Experimental set-up for aluminium anodization

Fig. 13.24 shows the experimental set-up for aluminium anodization.
The aluminium object to be anodized is connected to the positive
terminal of the power source. An aluminium sheet is rolled into
cylindrical shape and connected to the negative terminal. The
electrolyte is dilute sulphuric acid. During the process, oxygen
produced at the anode reacts with the aluminium object to increase
the thickness of the oxide layer.
7

EJMVUF
TVMQIVSJD
BDJE
BMVNJOJVN
TIFFU

BMVNJOJVN
PCKFDU
UP
CF
BOPEJ[FE

BT
UIF
BOPEF

Fig. 13.24 Experimental set-up for aluminium anodization

anodization 陽極電鍍　　windsurfing board 滑浪風帆板　　electrolyte 電解質

126 Topic 3  Metals

Practice 13.3
1 Explain why aluminium does not corrode in moist air.

2 Suggest THREE advantages of using anodized aluminium to make drink cans.

Chemistry Magazine
Stainless steel
Most of the mined iron is used to make steel, an alloy After Brearley left the firm, his successor W.H.
of iron. Hatfield continued the research and made the type of
stainless steel that we use today.

Brearley’s chromium steel formed the basis for the

wide range of stainless and special steels which are now
used across the world.

Questions
Chromium is in between zinc and iron in the reactivity
series.
Fig. 13.25 A car engine which is
made of stainless steel 1 Suggest how chromium can prevent iron in stainless
steel from rusting.
In 1908, Harry Brearley, a 36-year-old British
metallurgist, was given the opportunity to head up a 2 Coating chromium on iron-made objects can prevent
research laboratory in Britain. the objects from rusting. Explain how this process
can prevent rusting.
Brearley was given the task of finding an alloy
which would prolong the life of gun barrels, which were 3 In an experiment, a piece of chromium is put into
affected by the high temperatures that developed inside magnesium sulphate solution.
the barrels when the guns were fired. Around 1913,
Predict whether a reaction will take place.
he found that a mixture containing 12.8% chromium
Explain your answer.
and 0.24% carbon was extremely resistant to chemical
attack. He called his alloy ‘rustless steel’, but it was
decided that ‘stainless steel’ was a better name.
 Unit 13  Corrosion of metals and their protection 127

Have you mastered?

Key terms

corrosion 腐蝕 113 rusting 生銹 113 hydrated iron(III) oxide 水合氧化鐵(III) 113

rust indicator 鐵銹指示劑 117 potassium hexacyanoferrate(III) 六氰合鐵(III)酸鉀 117

phenolphthalein 酚酞 117 tin-plating 鍍錫 118 galvanized iron 鍍鋅鐵 119

zinc-plating 鍍鋅 119 electroplating 電鍍 119 sacrificial protection 犧牲性保護 120

impressed current cathodic protection 外加電流陰極保護 120 stainless steel 不銹鋼 121

aluminium anodization 鋁的陽極電鍍 125 electrolyte 電解質 125

Checklist

Have you mastered?

After studying this unit, you should be able to

describe the nature of iron rust;

describe the essential conditions for the rusting of iron;

describe and explain factors that influence the speed of rusting of iron;

describe the observations when a rust indicator (a mixture of potassium hexacyanoferrate(III) and
phenolphthalein) is used in an experiment that investigates rusting of iron;

describe and explain the methods of rusting prevention as exemplified by

• coating with paint, oil, grease or plastic;

• tin-plating;

• galvanizing;

• electroplating;

• sacrificial protection;

• impressed current cathodic protection;

• alloying;
 128 Topic 3  Metals

be aware of the socioeconomic impact of rusting;

understand why aluminium is less reactive and more corrosion resistant than expected;

describe how the corrosion resistance of aluminium can be enhanced by anodization.

(Put a ‘✔’ in the box if you have acquired the knowledge concerned.)

Summary

1 The deterioration of a metal due to its reaction with oxygen, moisture or other substances in the
environment is called corrosion.

2 The corrosion of iron is called rusting. Rust is the reddish-brown crust that forms on the surface of
the iron. Its chemical name is hydrated iron(III) oxide (Fe2O3•xH2O).

3 For rusting to occur, two things must be present: air (oxygen) and water.
Have you mastered?

4 Factors that speed up the rusting process include:

a) presence of ionic substances;

b) presence of acidic pollutants;

c) higher temperature;

d) scratching or bending the surface; and

e) attachment to a less reactive metal.

5 Rusting can be observed using a rust indicator, a mixture of potassium hexacyanoferrate(III) (K3Fe(CN)6)
and phenolphthalein.
 Unit 13  Corrosion of metals and their protection 129

6 Methods to prevent rusting include:

a) coating with paint, oil, grease or plastic;

b) tin-plating;

c) zinc-plating;

d) electroplating;

e) using sacrificial metals;

f) impressed current cathodic protection; and

g) using corrosion resisting alloys of iron.

7 a) When aluminium reacts with oxygen in the air, an even coating of aluminium oxide forms.

b) This oxide layer sticks firmly to the surface of the metal and is impermeable to oxygen and
water.

c) The thickness of the oxide coating can be increased by aluminium anodization. This increases

Have you mastered?

the corrosion resistance of aluminium.
 130 Topic 3  Metals

Unit Exercise

Note: The symbol indicates the level of difficulty of a question.

Part I  Knowledge and understanding

1 Complete the following concept map.

corrosion

of

(a)

is called

is caused by
(b) (c) and (d)
Unit Exercise

prevents

painting (f) (g) (h) (i) connecting (m)

blocks to the steel
(l)
used on used on used on used on
terminal of a
d.c. source
(e) galvanized metal-plated
food cans
bridges iron articles
used on gives

(k)
(j)
protection

2 List the factors that can speed up the rusting process.

 Unit 13  Corrosion of metals and their protection 131

Part II  Multiple choice questions

3 The diagrams below represent four tests in an 5 In which of the dishes would the iron nail rust?
experiment designed to find out the necessary
A Dish 1 only
conditions for rusting. Which diagram shows the most
B Dish 2 only
favourable conditions for rust to appear on the nail?
C Dish 1 and dish 3 only
A B D Dish 2 and dish 3 only
BOIZESPVT

DBMDJVN
DIMPSJEF 6 Which of the set-ups shown below can best be used
BJS
DPUUPO
XPPM to anodize an aluminium object?

C D QMBUJOVN

BMVNJOJVN

FMFDUSPEF
PCKFDU
PJM
XBUFS CPJMFE
EJTUJMMFE

EJMVUF
)40 BR

XBUFS

Unit Exercise
QMBUJOVN

Directions: Questions 4 and 5 refer to the following BMVNJOJVN

FMFDUSPEF
experiment. PCKFDU

The iron nails in the following glass dishes were treated in EJMVUF
)40 BR

different ways. A rust indicator solution containing potassium

hexacyanoferrate(III) and phenolphthalein was poured into C
the dishes to cover the nails.
QMBUJOVN

BMVNJOJVN

EJTI
 EJTI
 EJTI
 FMFDUSPEF
PCKFDU

DPODFOUSBUFE
/B$M BR

JSPO
OBJM
XSBQQFE
JSPO
OBJM
XSBQQFE
JSPO
OBJM
DPBUFE
D

XJUI
[JOD
TUSJQ XJUI
UJO
TUSJQ XJUI
QBJOU

QMBUJOVN

BMVNJOJVN

FMFDUSPEF
4 What colour would be observed if an iron nail in the PCKFDU
glass dish rusts?
DPODFOUSBUFE
/B$M BR

A Blue
B Brown (HKDSE, 2013, Paper 1A, 6)
C Red
D Yellow
 132 Topic 3  Metals

7 In order to prevent rusting, zinc blocks can be attached 10 Which of the following is / are example(s) of sacrificial
to the surface of steel ships. This is because protection against rusting?

A zinc is a stronger oxidizing agent than iron. (1) Iron dustbins coated with tin
B zinc prevents iron from losing electrons. (2) Underground iron pipes connected to magnesium
C zinc separates iron from air and water. bars
D zinc removes oxygen from rust. (3) Iron railings coated with paint
(HKCEE, 2011, Paper 2, 36)
A (1) only
B (2) only
8 Which of the following rust prevention methods does C (1) and (3) only
NOT match with the iron-made object? D (2) and (3) only
Rust prevention method Iron-made object
11 Which of the following changes would occur after an
A painting gate
aluminium article has been anodized?
B greasing machinery parts
C zinc plating food can (1) Its tensile strength increases.
D chromium plating car bumper (2) It is more easily dyed.
(HKCEE, 2009, Paper 2, 6) (3) It is more corrosion resistant.

A (1) only
9 Which of the following half equations are involved
B (2) only
when iron rusts?
C (1) and (3) only
(1) Fe Fe3+ + 3e– D (2) and (3) only
Unit Exercise

(2) Fe Fe2+ + 2e–

(3) Fe2+ Fe3+ + e– 12 Which of the following substances is / are alloy(s)?

A (1) and (2) only (1) Anodized aluminium

B (1) and (3) only (2) Bronze
C (2) and (3) only (3) Galvanized iron
D (1), (2) and (3)
A (1) only
(HKCEE, Paper 2, 2009, 20)
B (2) only
C (1) and (3) only
D (2) and (3) only

Part III  Structured questions

13 The diagram below shows an experimental set-up for a) What would be observed if an iron nail in the above
investigating the factors affecting rusting. set-up rusts?

JSPO
OBJM
#
XSBQQFE
b) Suggest which of the iron nails in the above set-

HFM
DPOUBJOJOH
/B$M BR

XJUI
NBHOFTJVN
SJCCPO up would NOT rust during the experiment. Explain
,'F $/
 BR

BOE

QIFOPMQIUIBMFJO your answer.
(HKDSE, Paper 1B, 2012, 9)

JSPO
OBJM
$
TFBMFE

XJUI
HSFBTF
JSPO
OBJM
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 Unit 13  Corrosion of metals and their protection 133

14 Four iron-made objects are placed separately in gel 16 Steel fuel tanks are buried underground at fuel
with rust indicator solution containing potassium stations.
hexacyanoferrate(III) and allowed to stand in air
for some time. Complete the following table by '6&-
45"5*0/
writing down the observation and giving the relevant
explanation for each of the cases.

Case Observation Explanation

Iron-made object
fully plated with
zinc
Iron-made object
fully plated with tin VOEFSHSPVOE

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GVFM
UBOL
Iron-made object
fully plated with
zinc, but part of a) Explain why the steel tank in the soil rusts easily.
the zinc scratched
b) i) Suggest how the steel tank can be protected
to expose the iron
from rusting.
underneath
ii) Explain the principle of the method suggested
Iron-made object
in (i).
fully plated with tin,

Unit Exercise
but part of the tin c) The tank could be made from stainless steel.
scratched to expose
the iron underneath i) Suggest a reason for this.

ii) Why is stainless steel NOT used?

(HKCEE, Paper 1, 2008, 3)

17 a) Zinc is used to prevent iron rusting. The iron is

15 Explain the following:
coated in zinc. This method of protection is called
a) Steel hot water tanks often have a bar of magnesium galvanizing. The layer of zinc stops oxygen and
suspended in the water. water reaching the iron. Galvanizing is an example
of sacrificial protection.
b) A battered tin can rusts more quickly than a
damaged galvanized iron rubbish bin. Explain how this sacrificial protection works.

b) When iron rusts, the atoms of iron, Fe, are changed

into iron(II) ions, Fe2+.

Write an equation for this reaction.

c) Zinc reacts with copper(II) sulphate solution to make

copper. A solution of zinc sulphate is also made.

Write down an equation for this reaction.

(OCR GCSE Gateway Science (Higher Tier), Chem. B, Unit
2, Jun. 2011, 9)

batter 破爛的
 134 Topic 3  Metals

18 John wants to stop his bicycle chain rusting. b) Iron corrodes quickly in moist air. This is called
rusting. Aluminium does not corrode in moist air.

Explain why.

c) Steel is an alloy that contains mostly iron. The

diagram below shows a car body.

a) John puts oil onto his bicycle chain.

Explain why this stops the chain rusting.

Aluminium or steel can be used to make a car
b) Iron can have a piece of magnesium attached to body. One advantage of aluminium is that it will
it. This also stops iron rusting. not corrode in moist air.
Explain how. Describe ANOTHER advantage and ONE disadvantage
of using aluminium instead of steel to make a car
c) Write an equation for the rusting of iron.
body. Information in the table may help you answer
(OCR GCSE Gateway Science (Higher Tier), Chem. B, Unit
this question.
2, Jan. 2012, 14)
(OCR GCSE Gateway Science (Higher Tier), Chem. B, Unit
Unit Exercise

1, Jan. 2008, 7)
19 Metals are a very useful type of material.

The table below shows some information about four 20 The surface of aluminium metal is always covered with
metals. a thin layer of another substance.

Relative Relative a) Give the chemical name of the thin surface layer
Melting and state the effect it has on aluminium.
Density strength hardness
Metal point
(g cm–3) (1 is very (1 is very b) This thin surface layer can be made thicker by
(°C)
weak) soft) treating the aluminium using electrolysis as shown
Aluminium 660 2.7 11 2.8 below.

Copper 1 085 8.9 33 3.0 ED

QPXFS

Iron 1 538 7.9 20 4.5 TVQQMZ

Titanium 1 668 4.5 40 6.0

a)
EJMVUF
TVMQIVSJD
BDJE
BMVNJOJVN

TIFFU
BMVNJOJVN
PCKFDU

UP
CF
USFBUFE

Titanium is used to make this aeroplane. Use i) Give the name of the process.
information from the table to explain why.
ii) Suggest whether the aluminium object to be
treated should be made the positive or negative
electrode.
 Topic 3  Metals 135

Topic Exercise

Note: The symbol indicates the level of difficulty of a question.

Part I  Multiple choice questions

1 The diagram shows the structure of an overhead power 3 Metal X is more reactive than platinum but less reactive
cable. The steel core gives strength to the cable. than iron. Which of the following statements is most
likely to be correct?

A X burns vigorously in air to form an oxide.

TUFFM
DPSF
BMVNJOJVN
XJSFT B X reacts with dilute hydrochloric acid vigorously.
C X displaces iron from iron(II) sulphate solution.
D The oxide of X can be reduced by heating with
Aluminium is used because it is a good conductor of carbon.
electricity and

A it has a low density. 4 X and Y are different metals. X reacts with the solution
B it is a good conductor of heat. of nitrate of Y according to the following equation:
C it can be hammered into shape. X(s) + Y2+(aq) X2+(aq) + Y(s)

Topic Exercise
D it is a hard metal.
(AQA GCSE (Higher Tier), Chemistry, Unit C1a, Jun. 2011, Which of the following deductions is correct?
3(d))
A Both X and Y can react with water.
B The reactivity of Y is higher than that of X.
2 Which of the following statements concerning an C Atoms of X lose electrons in the reaction.
aluminium ore consisting mainly of Al2O3 is correct? D X can be obtained by heating its oxide with Y.
(Relative atomic masses: O = 16.0, Al = 27.0)
5 In an oxide of metal M, the mass percentage of M is
A Carbon can be used to extract aluminium from this 55.0%. What is the chemical formula of this oxide?
ore.
B The abundance of this ore in the earth crust is very (Relative atomic masses: O = 16.0, M = 39.1)
low.
A MO2
C This ore contains more than 55% of aluminium by
B M2O
mass.
C M2O2
D Aluminium can be extracted from this ore due
D M2O3
to the advancement of technology in applying
(HKDSE, Paper 1A, 2012, 3)
electricity.
(HKDSE, Paper 1A, 2012, 9)
 136 Topic 3  Metals

6 An ore contains 80% of zinc sulphide by mass. 9 Consider the following equation:
Assuming that the other components in this ore do
X2(g) + 3Y2(g) 2XY3(g)
not contain zinc, what mass of the ore is required to
extract 0.70 g of zinc? 4 moles of X2(g) are allowed to react with 6 moles
(Relative atomic masses: S = 32.1, Zn = 65.4) of Y 2(g). What is the number of moles of XY 3(g)
formed?
A 0.88 g
B 1.04 g A 4
C 1.30 g B 6
D 1.76 g C 8
D 10
(HKCEE, Paper 2, 2011, 8)

10 When equal mass of Mg and Zn granules is added

7 The following equation represents the reaction of an
separately to excess dilute hydrochloric acid, Mg gives
oxide of iron with carbon:
more hydrogen than Zn does. Which of the following
Fe3O4(s) + 2C(s) 3Fe(s) + 2CO2(g) explanations is correct?

What mass of the iron oxide is required to produce A The reactivity of Mg is higher than that of Zn.
22.1 g of iron? B The metallic bond in Mg is stronger than that in
Zn.
(Relative atomic masses: O = 16.0, Fe = 55.8) C The relative atomic mass of Mg is smaller than that
of Zn.
A 15.9 g
D Mg is an alkaline earth metal while Zn is a transition
Topic Exercise

B 30.5 g
metal.
C 91.8 g
D 126 g
Directions: Questions 11–12 refer to the following reactivity
series.
8 Ammonium dichromate ((NH 4)2Cr2O7) decomposes
on heating to give chromium(III) oxide, water and Reactivity of some metals
nitrogen. What mass of water is obtained when
278 g of ammonium dichromate undergo complete most reactive
decomposition? aluminium
zinc
(Relative atomic masses: H = 1.0, N = 14.0, O = 16.0, iron
Cr = 52.0) tin
lead
A 19.8 g copper
B 39.6 g least reactive
C 79.2 g
D 158 g 11 The metal tin occurs in the Earth’s crust as the
compound called cassiterite, SnO2. How would you
expect tin to be extracted from its oxide?

A By mixing the oxide with copper and heating

strongly
B By electrolysis of the solid oxide
C By mixing the oxide with carbon and heating
strongly
D By electrolysis of a solution of the oxide
 Topic 3  Metals 137

12 The main reason why food cans made from steel (iron) 15 Both the frame and gear system of a bicycle are made
are coated with tin is because of steel. Which of the following combinations can
be used to prevent these parts of the bicycle from
A tin has a lower density than iron. rusting?
B tin is less reactive than iron.
C tin is a better conductor of heat than iron. Frame Gear system
D tin is stronger than iron. A painting greasing
(AQA GCSE (Foundation Tier), Chemistry, Unit C1a, Jun. B painting galvanizing
2012, 6(a)–(b)) C tin-plating greasing
D tin-plating galvanizing
Directions: Questions 13–14 refer to the following diagrams (HKDSE, Paper 1A, 2013, 7)
that show the arrangement of atoms in pure
iron and in stainless steel. 16 Which of the following are the advantages of using
anodized aluminium to make drink cans?

(1) The drink cans can be dyed more easily.

(2) The hardness of the drink cans can be
increased.
QVSF
JSPO TUBJOMFTT
TUFFM
(3) The corrosion resistance of the drink cans can
be enhanced.
13 Pure iron is soft and easily shaped because the
atoms A (1) and (2) only
B (1) and (3) only

Topic Exercise
A are not arranged in a regular pattern. C (2) and (3) only
B are small and spherical. D (1), (2) and (3)
C are in layers that can slide over each other. (HKCEE, Paper 2, 2011, 46)
D are of different sizes.
(AQA GCSE (Higher Tier), Chemistry, Unit C1a, Jun. 2011, 17 Which of the following combinations is / are
3(a)) correct?

14 Stainless steel rather than pure iron is used for making Corresponding
cutlery. Which row in the table gives two reasons why corrosion prevention
stainless steel is used? Object method / principle
(1) aluminium window cathodic protection
Stainless steel frames
(2) galvanized iron buckets sacrificial protection
is a better heat
A is harder. (3) tin-plated iron cans alloying
conductor.
A (1) only
is more resistant to
B is harder. B (2) only
corrosion.
C (1) and (3) only
is a better heat can be more easily D (2) and (3) only
C
conductor. shaped. (HKDSE, Paper 1A, 2012, 16)
can be more easily is more resistant to
D
shaped. corrosion.

(AQA GCSE (Higher Tier), Chemistry, Unit C1a, Jun. 2011,

3(b))
 138 Topic 3  Metals

Directions : Each question (Questions 18–20) consists of two separate statements. Decide whether each of
the two statements is true or false; if both are true, then decide whether or not the second
statement is a correct explanation of the first statement. Then select one option from A to
D according to the following table :

A Both statements are true and the 2nd statement is a correct explanation of the 1st statement.
B Both statements are true but the 2nd statement is NOT a correct explanation of the 1st statement.
C The 1st statement is false but the 2nd statement is true.
D Both statements are false.

1st statement 2nd statement

18 When excess magnesium ribbons are added to When magnesium ribbons are added to iron(II) sulphate
iron(II) sulphate solution, the solution gradually solution, a displacement reaction occurs.
changes from pale green to yellow. (HKCEE, Paper 2, 2011, 30)

19 Galvanized iron is used for making food cans. Zinc can prevent iron from rusting by sacrificial
protection. (HKCEE, Paper 2, 2007, 48)

20 When iron and copper are separately immersed in Iron can be oxidized more readily than copper.
hexane completely, iron corrodes faster than copper.
Topic Exercise

(HKDSE, Paper 1A, 2012, 23)

Part II  Structured questions

21 a) Iron is extracted from iron ore. Iron ore contains c) What mass of iron is present in 72.0 g of FeO?
iron oxide. There are different types of iron oxide.
Which of these formulae corresponds to the oxide (Relative atomic masses: O = 16.0, Fe = 55.8)
with the highest proportion of iron atoms? Circle d) Carbon monoxide is a gas at room temperature.
the correct answer.
What does this indicate about the structure and
FeO    Fe2O3    Fe3O4 bonding of carbon monoxide?
b) Iron is extracted from iron oxide in a blast furnace. (OCR GCSE 21st Century Science (Higher Tier), Additional
Iron forms through a sequence of reactions. Science A, Unit 2, A216/02, Jan. 2010, 1)

Here are the reactions, but they are not in the 22 Both copper and aluminium have many uses. Give
correct order. a different use for each of these metals and give a
A 2C + O2 2CO property of the metal on which that use depends.
B FeO + CO Fe + CO2 (Edexcel IGCSE (Higher Tier), Chemistry, Paper 2, Nov. 2008,
C Fe3O4 + CO 3FeO + CO2 6(d))
D 3Fe2O3 + CO 2Fe3O4 + CO2

Put the reactions into the correct order. The last

one has been done for you.

start B end
 Topic 3  Metals 139

23 a) Copper is used to make electric wires even though d) Scrap iron can be used to extract copper from dilute
it is expensive. This is because copper is a good aqueous solutions containing copper(II) ions.
conductor of electricity.
i) Explain why this is a low-cost method of
Write down one other reason why copper is used extracting copper.
to make electric wires.
ii) Write an ionic equation for the reaction of iron
b) The diagram below shows the structure of a with copper(II) ions in aqueous solution.
metal. (AQA Advanced Subsidiary GCE, Chemistry, Unit 2, Jan.
2010, 8)
QPTJUJWF
JPO    
Fm Fm Fm Fm Fm
25 W, X, Y and Z are four different metals. The table
   
FMFDUSPO Fm Fm Fm Fm m below lists the results of three experiments carried out
F using the metals or their oxides.
   

Experiment W X Y Z
Use ideas about the structure of metals to explain
why formation
Adding no no no
of a
metal to observable observable observable
i) copper conducts electricity. colourless
cold water change change change
gas
ii) iron has a very high melting point.
(OCR GCSE 21st Century Science (Higher Tier), Additional formation
Science B, Unit 1, B623/02, Jan. 2011, 6) Adding formation of a formation

Topic Exercise
metal to of a no colourless of a
24 Copper is extracted from the ore chalcopyrite (CuFeS2) copper(II) reddish observable gas and reddish
in a three-stage process. sulphate brown change a reddish brown
solution solid brown solid
a) In the first stage of this extraction, the chalcopyrite solid
is heated with silicon dioxide and oxygen.
formation formation
Heating
Balance the following equation for this first stage no of a solid no of a solid
the metal
in which copper(I) sulphide is formed. observable with observable with
oxide with
change metallic change metallic
CuFeS2 + SiO2 + O2 carbon
lustre lustre
Cu2S + FeSiO3 + SO2

b) In the second stage of this extraction, the copper(I) a) Arrange the metals in order of reactivity, starting
sulphide is converted into copper(II) oxide. This with the most reactive one. Explain your answer
occurs by roasting the sulphide with oxygen at high briefly.
temperature. Write an equation for this reaction.
b) Metal Y gives a brick-red flame in a flame test.
c) In the third stage of this extraction, copper(II) oxide
i) Suggest what metal Y might be.
is reduced to copper by its reaction with carbon.
Write an equation for this reaction. ii) Write a chemical equation for the reaction
between Y and water.

iii) Draw a labelled diagram of the set-up for carrying

out the reaction between Y and cold water, with
the collection of the gaseous product.
 140 Topic 3  Metals

26 Read this article about lead mining. b) Two reactions take place when lead ore is heated
in the fire.
Archaeologists have discovered a small lead mine i) In reaction 1, lead(II) sulphide reacts with oxygen
that was used 4 000 years ago. to make lead(II) oxide and sulphur dioxide.
The miners made a deep hole through soft ground Balance the equation for this reaction.
until they reached the lead ore. They then dug PbS + O2 PbO + SO2
out the ore and loaded it into baskets.
ii) In reaction 2, the oxygen is removed from the
A second group of people lifted the ore out of lead(II) oxide.
the mine and put it into a wood fire. In the fire
the ore reacted to make sulphur dioxide, carbon What do we call a reaction in which oxygen is
dioxide and melted lead. The melted lead was removed?
run into moulds and allowed to solidify.
iii) What is the formula mass of lead(II) oxide,
PbO?
melted lead (Relative atomic masses: O = 16.0,
running into
Pb = 207.2)
simple mould
iv) Calculate the percentage by mass of Pb in the
soft ground PbO.
(OCR GCSE 21st Century Science (Higher Tier), Additional
Science A, A152/02, Jun. 2012, 2)
Topic Exercise

a) Here is some information about three of the 27 a) Calculate the percentage of aluminium in aluminium
substances involved in the process. oxide.

Sulphur (Relative atomic masses: O = 16.0, Al = 27.0)

Lead Lead ore
dioxide b) Aluminium is extracted from aluminium oxide using
Melting electrolysis.
point 327 1 114 –73
The diagram shows a cell used for the extraction
(°C)
of aluminium.
Boiling
point 1 744 1 281 –10 m  PYZHFO
GPSNT
BU
UIF

QPTJUJWF
FMFDUSPEF
(°C)
prolonged prolonged
exposure to exposure to acidic FMFDUSPMZUF
Hazard
dust or fumes dust or fumes gas
is harmful is harmful

BMVNJOJVN
GPSNT
BU
UIF

Use the information in the article and table above OFHBUJWF
FMFDUSPEF
to suggest and describe at least FOUR likely risks to
people. Explain how each risk is created and who
would be affected.

(Communication mark will be awarded for this

part.)
 Topic 3  Metals 141

i) The electrolyte contains cryolite. 29 State and explain what you would observe when zinc
granules are added to a solution of copper(II) sulphate.
Explain why. Write an equation for the reaction, including state
ii) Oxygen is formed at the positive electrode. symbols.
Complete and balance the equation for this (Edexcel GCE O Level, Paper 1, Jun. 2010, 7(a))
reaction.
30 Thermit reactions broadly refer to exothermic oxidation-
O2– O2 + reduction reactions between a metal powder and a
iii) The positive electrode in the cell is used up metal oxide. One example is the reaction of finely
during the process. divided iron(III) oxide with aluminium powder. This
reaction results in a very high temperature, and is
Explain why. commonly used in the welding of rail tracks for trains.
(AQA GCSE (Higher Tier), Chemistry, Unit 2, May 2012, 5) At this very high temperature, the molten iron formed
joins the rail tracks together.
28 Metals are usually extracted from oxides.
a) Complete and balance the chemical equation for
Some of these oxides occur naturally. Other oxides the following thermit reaction.
are made by roasting sulphide ores in air, producing
Fe2O3(s) + Al(s) +
sulphur dioxide as a by-product.
b) Copper powder CANNOT be used to replace
For the extraction of some metals, the oxide needs to
aluminium powder in carrying out the thermit
be converted into a chloride.
reaction with iron(III) oxide. Explain why.

Topic Exercise
a) i) The ore molybdenite contains molybdenum
c) The extraction of iron from its ores also involves
disulphide (MoS2).
the reduction of iron oxides.
The first stage in the extraction of molybdenum
i) Suggest why aluminium is NOT used as the
is to roast the ore in air to form molybdenum
reducing agent in iron extraction.
oxide (MoO3) and sulphur dioxide.
ii) Suggest ONE reducing agent commonly used
Write an equation for the first stage in this
in iron extraction.
extraction.
(HKDSE, Paper 1B, 2013, 10)
ii) Pure molybdenum is formed in the second stage
by the reduction of MoO3 using hydrogen.

Write an equation for this reaction.

iii) State ONE risk in using hydrogen gas in metal

extractions.

b) Calcium is an expensive metal. It is extracted by

the electrolysis of molten calcium chloride.

i) State why calcium chloride must be molten for

electrolysis to occur.

ii) Identify the major cost in this extraction of

calcium.
(AQA Advanced Subsidiary GCE, Chemistry, Unit 2, June
2011, 4(a)–(b))
 142 Topic 3  Metals

31 Titanium is used in aircraft, ships and hip replacement a) Calculate the formula mass for ammonium
joints. Titanium is as strong as steel but 45% lighter, phosphate.
and is more resistant to acids and alkalis.
(Relative atomic masses: H = 1.0, N = 14.0, O = 16.0,
Most titanium is produced from its ore, rutile (titanium P = 31.0)
oxide), by a process that takes up to 17 days.
b) Calculate the percentage by mass of nitrogen in
ammonium phosphate.
Titanium oxide is reacted with chlorine to
produce titanium chloride. (OCR GCSE Gateway Science (Higher Tier), Chem. B, Unit
2, Jan. 2012, 2(a))

Titanium chloride is reacted with magnesium 33 A student wants to find the empirical formula of a
at 900 °C in a sealed reactor for 3 days. sample of copper oxide.

The following is the apparatus she uses.

The reactor is allowed to cool, then opened DPQQFS
PYJEF GMBNF
UP

and the titanium is separated from the CVSO
PGG

magnesium chloride by hand. FYDFTT

QSPQBOF QSPQBOF

Titanium reactors produce about 1 tonne of the metal DPNCVTUJPO
UVCF

per day. IFBU

Iron blast furnaces produce about 20 000 tonnes of The student puts 2.86 g of copper oxide into the
Topic Exercise

the metal per hour. combustion tube. She passes propane gas over the
heated copper oxide. After 20 minutes all the copper
a) Give ONE property of titanium that makes it more
oxide has been changed into copper. She makes 2.54 g
useful than steel for hip replacement joints.
of copper in this experiment.
b) In the reactor magnesium is used to produce
a) i) What is the amount, in moles, of copper
titanium. If carbon were used instead of magnesium,
made?
no titanium would be produced.
(Relative atomic masses: Cu = 63.5)
What does this tell you about the relative reactivities
of carbon, magnesium and titanium? ii) During the reaction all the oxygen in the 2.86 g
of copper oxide is removed.
c) The use of titanium is limited because it is
expensive. What is the amount, in moles, of oxygen atoms
removed?
Explain why titanium costs more than steel.
(AQA GCSE (Higher Tier), Chemistry, Unit 1, Jun. 2008, 4) (Relative atomic masses: O = 16.0)

iii) Use your answers to parts (i) and (ii) to work

32 Ammonium phosphate is a fertilizer. The formula for
out the empirical formula for copper oxide.
ammonium phosphate is (NH4)3PO4.
b) The student repeats the experiment.

This time she uses 5.72 g of copper oxide instead

of 2.86 g.

What mass of copper should the student make?

(OCR GCSE Gateway Science (Higher Tier), Chem. B, Unit
2, Jun. 2010, 6)
 Topic 3  Metals 143

34 A compound of boron and chlorine has a relative 37 The following experimental set-up was used to reduce
molecular mass of 163.6 and contains 13.2% of boron 7.18 g iron(III) oxide to iron.
by mass.
JSPO ***

PYJEF
Calculate the molecular formula of this compound. GMBNF

(Relative atomic masses: B = 10.8, Cl = 35.5) IZESPHFO

(AQA Advanced Subsidiary GCE, Unit 1, Jun. 2012, 5(e))
IFBU
35 Hydrated calcium nitrate can be represented by the
formula Ca(NO3)2•xH2O where x is an integer. a) Write a chemical equation for the reaction that
A 6.04 g sample of Ca(NO3)2•xH2O contains 1.84 g of occurred in the experiment.
water of crystallization. b) Suggest ONE way to show that a metal is formed
Use this information to calculate a value for x. in this experiment.

(Relative atomic masses: H = 1.0, N = 14.0, O = 16.0, c) Calculate the mass of iron obtained.
Ca = 40.1) (Relative atomic masses: O = 16.0, Fe = 55.8)
(AQA Advanced Subsidiary GCE, Unit 1, Jun. 2011, 2(c))
d) Explain why the excess hydrogen was burnt.
36 Copper(II) sulphate crystallizes from its aqueous solution e) Draw a hazard warning label that should be
as CuSO4•5H2O(s). displayed on a cylinder of hydrogen.

Topic Exercise
a) The water of crystallization of the salt can be f) Upon heating, silver oxide decomposes to give
liberated upon heating. Suggest a chemical test to silver and oxygen. Write a chemical equation for
show that water is being liberated. the decomposition.
b) Outline an experimental method to establish that g) Is it possible to deduce from the results of the
the salt is a pentahydrate. experiments of iron and silver that iron occupies a
c) When CuSO4•5H2O(s) is heated slowly such that higher position in the reactivity series than silver?
the temperature rises steadily, it will lose four water Explain your answer.
molecules at about 110 °C, and then the last water
molecule at about 250 °C.

Using the axes below, sketch the change of

mass when a sample of CuSO4•5H2O(s) is heated
slowly.
.BTT
BSCJUSBSZ
VOJU

    

5FNQFSBUVSF
ž$

(HKALE, 2011, Paper 1, 7(a))

 144 Topic 3  Metals

38 Copper(II) carbonate decomposes when heated. 39 Air bags are used to protect the passengers in a car
Copper(II) oxide and carbon dioxide are made. during an accident. When the crash sensor detects an
impact, it causes a mixture of chemicals to be heated
CuCO3(s) CuO(s) + CO2(g) to a high temperature. Reactions then take place to
The following table shows the formula mass or relative produce nitrogen gas. The nitrogen fills the air bag.
molecular mass of each compound in the equation.
air bag
mixture of
Formula mass / relative chemicals crash
Compound air bag
molecular mass crash sensor
sensor
impact
CuCO3 123.5
CuO 79.5
nitrogen
CO2 44.0 gas
Before crash After crash

a) A student investigates the decomposition of

copper(II) carbonate. a) The mixture of chemicals contains sodium azide
(NaN 3) which decomposes on heating to form
He predicts he should make 3.69 g of copper(II) sodium and nitrogen.
oxide.
2NaN3(s) 2Na(s) + 3N2(g)
He actually makes 3.32 g of copper(II) oxide.
A typical air bag contains 130.0 g of sodium
Calculate his percentage yield. azide. Calculate the mass of nitrogen that would
Topic Exercise

b) Another student heats 6.20 g of copper(II) be produced when 130.0 g of sodium azide
carbonate. decompose.

Calculate the mass of copper(II) oxide that he should (Relative atomic masses: N = 14.0, Na = 23.0)
make. b) The sodium produced when the sodium azide
(OCR GCSE Gateway Science (Higher Tier), Chem. B, Unit decomposes is dangerous. The mixture of chemicals
2, Jan. 2010, 3) contains potassium nitrate and silicon dioxide, both
of which help to make the sodium safe.

i) Sodium reacts with potassium nitrate to make

sodium oxide, potassium oxide and nitrogen.
Complete the balancing of the equation for this
reaction.

10Na(s) + KNO3(s)
Na2O(s) + K2O(s) + N2(g)

ii) The silicon dioxide reacts with the sodium oxide

and potassium oxide to form silicates.

Suggest why sodium oxide and potassium oxide

are dangerous in contact with the skin.
(AQA Advanced Subsidiary GCE, Unit 2, Jun. 2010, 4(a)–
(b))
 Topic 3  Metals 145

40 Potassium superoxide is used to provide emergency 42 The ore haematite contains iron(III) oxide. Iron is
supplies of oxygen in submarines. extracted from this ore by reaction with carbon.

The equation below shows the reaction of potassium The products of this reaction are iron and carbon
superoxide that makes oxygen. dioxide.

4KO2(s) + 2CO2(g) 2K2CO3(s) + 3O2(g) a) Finish this equation for the reaction.

Anthony reacts 71.1 g of potassium superoxide, KO2, Fe2O3(s) + C(s) (s) + (g)
with excess carbon dioxide, CO2. What mass of oxygen
b) A haematite ore contains 80.0% by mass of iron(III)
is made?
oxide.
Use the relative molecular masses or formula masses
Calculate the maximum mass of iron that can be
in the table.
extracted from each tonne of this ore.
Relative molecular mass / (1 tonne = 1 000 kg)
Substance
formula mass
(Relative atomic masses: O = 16.0, Fe = 55.8)
KO2 71.1
(OCR GCSE 21st Century Science (Higher Tier), Chem. A,
CO2 44.0 Unit 2, Jan. 2008, 5)
K2CO3 138.2
43 A metal carbonate decomposes according to the
O2 32.0
equation:

Topic Exercise
(OCR GCSE Gateway Science (Higher Tier), Chem. B, Unit MCO3(s) MO(s) + CO2(g)
2, Jun. 2011, 8(d))
When 5.02 g of MCO3 are decomposed completely
41 Magnesium nitrate decomposes on heating to form by heating, 1.76 g of carbon dioxide are produced.
magnesium oxide, nitrogen dioxide and oxygen as Calculate the molar mass of MCO3 and hence identify
shown in the following equation. M.

2Mg(NO3)2(s) 2MgO(s) + 4NO2(g) + O2(g) (Relative atomic masses: C = 12.0, O = 16.0)

Thermal decomposition of a sample of magnesium 44 A worker is fixing the roof of his shed using galvanized
nitrate produced 0.741 g of magnesium oxide. iron nails.

a) Calculate the amount, in moles, of MgO in 0.741 g

of magnesium oxide.

b) Calculate the total amount, in moles, of gas

produced from this sample of magnesium nitrate.

(Relative atomic masses: N = 14.0, O = 16.0,

Mg = 24.3)
Galvanized iron nails have been coated in zinc.
(AQA Advanced Subsidiary GCE, Unit 1, Jun. 2010, 3(a)(i)–
(ii)) The zinc coating prevents the iron nail from rusting.

Explain TWO ways the zinc coating does this.

(OCR GCSE Gateway Science (Higher Tier), Chem. B, Unit
2, Jun. 2010, 10(a))
 146 Topic 3  Metals

45 A lady has an old Landrover. Some parts of the

Landrover is made from aluminium.

a) Explain why aluminium does not corrode.

b) The table below shows some information about

iron and aluminium.

Aluminium Iron
Density (g cm–3) 2.7 7.9
Relative strength 1 2.7
Effect of moist air no corrosion rusts quickly

i) Write down ONE advantage of using aluminium

to make car bodies.
Topic Exercise

ii) Write down ONE disadvantage of using

aluminium to make car bodies.

c) European law says that 85% of a car must be able

to be recycled.

Give a reason, other than cost, why it is good to

recycle parts of a car.
(OCR GCSE Gateway Science (Higher Tier), Chem. B, Unit
1, Jun. 2009, 7)