Rusting Experiment

Subject: Chemistry | Grade: 6 | Time: 15 minutes setup, observe over 2-3 days

Demonstrate the conditions necessary for rust to form by testing iron nails in different environments.

What you need

3 iron nails
3 small transparent jars or cups
Water
Salt
Oil
Labels or masking tape

How it works

Rust forms when iron reacts with oxygen and water. Salt speeds up the reaction. Oil in Jar C prevents oxygen from reaching the nail, so rusting is reduced. This teaches the role of moisture and oxygen in corrosion.

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