<P> The rusting of iron is an electrochemical process that begins with the transfer of electrons from iron to oxygen . The iron is the reducing agent ( gives up electrons ) while the oxygen is the oxidising agent ( gains electrons ) . The rate of corrosion is affected by water and accelerated by electrolytes , as illustrated by the effects of road salt on the corrosion of automobiles . The key reaction is the reduction of oxygen : </P>
<P> The rusting of iron is an electrochemical process that begins with the transfer of electrons from iron to oxygen . The iron is the reducing agent ( gives up electrons ) while the oxygen is the oxidising agent ( gains electrons ) . The rate of corrosion is affected by water and accelerated by electrolytes , as illustrated by the effects of road salt on the corrosion of automobiles . The key reaction is the reduction of oxygen : </P>
the reaction of iron metal with oxygen to form iron ( iii ) oxide
the reaction of iron metal with oxygen to form iron ( iii ) oxide
rusting
rusting