what are the effects of oxygen on medal.
On medal or metal?
medals like an olympic metal
What kind of metal is used for Olympic medals?
http://chemistry.about.com/od/metalsalloys/f/what_are_olympic_medals_made_of.htm
On the gold medals that outside layer is gold plated and oxygen will have little effect on it. For the silver medals, oxygen will tarnish silver over time forming either silver oxide or silver sulfide or both (think household silverware made with silver or silver plate--the silver must be "polished" now and then.) Bronze darkens on long exposure to oxygen due to the formatiion of copper oxide..
The effects of oxygen on metals can vary depending on the specific metal and the conditions in which it is exposed to oxygen. In general, oxygen can cause a process known as oxidation, which involves the reaction between oxygen and the metal's surface. This oxidation can have both positive and negative effects.
1. Corrosion: When metals react with oxygen, they may form metal oxides on their surface. This process is commonly known as corrosion. Corrosion can result in the degradation of the metal, leading to a loss of structural integrity and aesthetic appeal. For example, iron or steel exposed to oxygen and moisture can rust, forming iron oxide on the surface.
2. Passivation: In some cases, when certain metals are exposed to oxygen, a protective layer called a passivation layer can form on the metal's surface. This layer acts as a barrier, preventing further corrosion from occurring. For instance, stainless steel contains chromium, which reacts with oxygen to generate a thin, transparent, and protective chromium oxide layer on its surface, making it highly resistant to corrosion.
3. Combustion: Certain metals, such as magnesium and titanium, can undergo combustion when exposed to high levels of oxygen. This reaction is highly exothermic and can produce intense heat, flames, and potentially explosions. These metals are commonly used in applications where high reactivity with oxygen is desired, such as pyrotechnics or aerospace industries.
To determine the specific effects of oxygen on a particular metal, it is essential to consider factors such as the type of metal, the concentration and pressure of oxygen, the presence of other elements or impurities, and the environmental conditions. Understanding these factors is crucial to predict and mitigate the potential effects of oxygen on metals.