Chapter 17, Problem 13RQ

Why is the rusting of iron considered to be a chemical change?

To determine

Whether the rusting of iron considered to be a chemical change.

Answer to Problem 13RQ

Yes, the rusting of iron is considered to be a chemical change because rust formation takes place due to chemical reaction.

Explanation of Solution

Iron when kept open and is allowed to atmospheric air and moisture components, it reacts with the elemental iron in an atomic form and produces its oxide.

The oxide of iron is the chemical compound which is called rust. Since this rust is formed due to the chemical reaction of iron and other atmospheric component.

Thus, the rusting process that is the formation of rust is a chemical process and hence is considered as a chemical change.

Conclusion:

Therefore, the rusting of iron is considered to be a chemical change because rust formation takes place due to chemical reaction