Tarnish

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Tarnish is a thin layer of corrosion that forms over metals, often appearing as a dull or discolored film. This process is a result of a chemical reaction between the metal and a non-metal compound, most commonly oxygen and sulfur dioxide. Tarnish is typically seen on metals such as silver, copper, and brass.

Causes[edit | edit source]

Tarnish occurs when the surface of a metal reacts with substances in the environment. For example, silver tarnishes when it comes into contact with hydrogen sulfide in the air, forming silver sulfide. Similarly, copper tarnishes when it reacts with oxygen, forming copper oxide.

Prevention[edit | edit source]

To prevent tarnish, metals can be coated with a protective layer. Common methods include:

Removal[edit | edit source]

Tarnish can be removed through various methods, including:

  • Polishing with a soft cloth and a mild abrasive.
  • Using chemical tarnish removers that dissolve the tarnish without damaging the underlying metal.
  • Electrochemical reduction, where the tarnished metal is placed in an electrolytic solution and an electric current is applied to reverse the tarnishing reaction.

Commonly Tarnished Metals[edit | edit source]

Applications[edit | edit source]

Understanding and managing tarnish is important in various fields, including:

See Also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]


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