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What is the chemical formula for corrosion in copper and silver?
By BYJU'S Exam Prep
Updated on: September 25th, 2023
The chemical formula for corrosion in copper and silver is 2Ag(s) + H2S(g) + 1/2O2 (g) → Ag2S(s) + H2(g). Refined metal is transformed naturally by corrosion into a more stable chemical state, such as oxide, hydroxide, or sulphide.
Table of content
Corrosion in Copper
- When copper metal is exposed to the atmosphere, copper (I) oxide (Cu2O), which has a red colour, is produced when the metal reacts with oxygen in the air.
- The reaction is as follows:
2Cu(s) + ½ O2 (g) → Cu2O(s)
- In the environment, CuO reacts with carbon dioxide (CO2), sulphur trioxide (SO3), and water (H2O) to produce the minerals malachite and blue Cu2(OH)2 (s) (Brochantite).
- This is the cause of the bluish-green colouration of copper.
Corrosion in silver
When silver combines with airborne sulphur and sulphur compounds, silver turns into silver sulphide (Ag2S). Exposed silver interacts with atmospheric hydrogen sulphide (H2S) to produce the gaseous compound Ag2S. (H2).
Following is the response:
2Ag(s) + H2S(g) + 1/2O2 (g) → Ag2S(s) + H2(g)
Summary:
What is the chemical formula for corrosion in copper and silver?
The chemical formula for corrosion in copper and silver is 2Ag(s) + H2S(g) + 1/2O2 (g) → Ag2S(s) + H2(g). For instance, iron loses its tenacity when it rusts and is easily crumbled.