Final answer:
Anti-corrosion compounds form a protective barrier, inhibit electrochemical reactions that cause corrosion, and extend the lifespan of metal structures. They do not increase the rate of corrosion, which is a misconception. These compounds use various methods like cathodic protection and protective coatings to guard against the galvanic process of corrosion.OPTION B.
Step-by-step explanation:
Anti-corrosion compounds work by various mechanisms to protect metals from corrosion. One erroneous statement regarding these compounds is that they increase the rate of corrosion. This is not true, as their purpose is to prevent or slow down the degradation process of metals. Here's why the other statements are true:
- Anti-corrosion compounds form a protective barrier on metal surfaces by physically blocking corrosive substances from reaching the metal.
- They inhibit the electrochemical reactions that cause corrosion, such as oxidation-reduction (REDOX) reactions, thus preserving the integrity of the metal.
- By performing the above functions, anti-corrosion compounds extend the lifespan of metal structures by reducing the likelihood of corrosion.
For example, protective coatings such as paint or plastic can prevent oxygen and water from coming into contact with the metal surface. Another method is cathodic protection, which uses metals like zinc or magnesium to become oxidized preferentially, thus offering protection to the underlying iron through sacrificial anodes.
Metal alloys, such as stainless steel, are created by adding other metals like chromium to iron, which makes the resulting alloy more resistant to corrosion. However, these alloys can be expensive.
In summary, anti-corrosion compounds are designed to fight against and slow down the galvanic process of corrosion, not to accelerate it.