Question

In chemistry class, Allen determined the effectiveness of various metals in releasing hydrogen gas from hydrochloric acid. Several weeks later, Allen read that a utility company was burying lead next to iron pipes to prevent rusting. Allen hypothesized that less rusting would occur with the more active metals. He placed the following into 4 separate beakers of water:

(a) 1 iron nail,
(b) 1 iron nail wrapped with an aluminum strip,
(c) 1 iron nail wrapped with a magnesium strip, and
(d) 1 iron nail wrapped with a lead strip.
He used the same amount of water, equal amounts (mass) of the metals, and the same type of iron nails. At the end of 5 days, he rated the amount of rusting as small, moderate, or large. He also recorded the color of the water.

Allen is looking to do a follow-up study to the one he conducted already. What question would be addressed as part of a valid follow-up study?
A. Do tin nails experience less rusting with more active metals?
B. Do copper nails experience less rusting with more active metals?
C. Do zinc nails experience less rusting with more passive metals?
D. Do aluminum nails experience less rusting with more reactive metals?

Answer 1

The valid follow-up study question would be: C. Do zinc nails experience less rusting with more passive metals?

Step-by-step explanation:

In a follow-up study, investigating the correlation between zinc nails and more passive metals can shed light on the impact of varying metal combinations on rusting. This question explores the potential protective effects of passive metals, like lead, on zinc, providing insights into whether less reactive metals can hinder or reduce rust formation on zinc surfaces. Understanding how zinc, a less reactive metal, interacts with more passive metals compared to its interaction with active ones could offer valuable information for corrosion prevention strategies. This study's findings might inform industries, particularly those employing zinc-coated materials, about the effectiveness of different metal combinations in mitigating rust formation.

The correct answer is C. Do zinc nails experience less rusting with more passive metals?