Final answer:
The color change of an iron chain from gray to reddish brown due to being left in water is an example of oxidation, which is a chemical reaction that causes iron to corrode and form rust.
Step-by-step explanation:
When a piece of iron chain changes color from gray to reddish brown after being left in water for a few days, this is most likely an example of oxidation. Oxidation is a chemical reaction where iron combines with oxygen in the presence of water to form iron oxide, or rust, which has the dark red-brown color. This corrosion process is specifically represented by the reaction Fe + O2 → Fe2O3, where metallic iron is converted to the reddish-brown solid Fe(OH)3.