2. The Chemistry of Rust

3. Iron Rusting is a very common chemical change. Oxygen mixes with iron or steel to form the red powdery iron oxide that we call rust. In order to have rust you need three things. Water oxygen

4. Water Water breaks down the iron nail. Oxygen molecules combine with the broken down iron molecules creating rust. 2Fe + 3 O  Fe 2 O 3 iron plus oxygen makes iron oxide (rust)

5. Connect a 6 volt battery to two wires attached to steel nails. Stick the ends into some salt water. After about 1 minute you should notice something happening. By sending electricity through the water you break the water particles into Oxygen and Hydrogen. The hydrogen bubbles to the surface while the oxygen bonds with the iron creating rust.