Which type of reaction is occurring when a metal undergoes corrosion?
A. Saponification.
B. Neutralization.
C. Polymerization.
D. Oxidation-reduction.
E. Decomposition reaction.
When certain metals combine with oxygen in the air, a metallic oxide results. Iron oxide is commonly called rust. Other metals such as copper also oxidize. (The Statue of Liberty in NY Harbor was not always green). The term oxidation-reduction is used to describe the addition-removal of oxygen. Oxidation is the process by which a substance loses one or more electrons.