Final answer:
Copper tubes in steam condensers can be susceptible to corrosion due to Cu/Fe pipe joints, while stainless steel tubes are highly resistant to corrosion due to the presence of chromium.
Step-by-step explanation:
The copper tubes in steam condensers can be susceptible to corrosion due to the Cu/Fe pipe joints. When copper is brought into electrical contact with iron in the presence of oxygen, corrosion occurs. Copper is less active than iron and will act as the cathode where oxygen is reduced, while iron acts as the anode where iron dissolves. This corrosion reaction can lead to rapid corrosion in the condenser.
On the other hand, stainless steel tubes are not as susceptible to corrosion as copper tubes. Stainless steel is highly resistant to corrosion due to the presence of chromium. The chromium forms a protective layer on the surface of the steel, preventing corrosion.