what is a rust?
Corrosion is the loss of metallic properties of a metal due to oxidation and is accompanied by the formation of unwanted products. Copper, iron and aluminum metals all corrode over time loosing strength, lustre and electrical conductivity. Rusting is the corrosion of iron and readily occurs in the alloy steel. The formation of a reddish brown flakes which loosely adheres to the iron is called rust. Steel is an alloy made of iron and carbon. The carbon atoms in steel greatly increase the strength of the metal.