Final answer:
Corrosion is the electrochemical deterioration of metals, leading to costly damages such as rust on iron and tarnish on silver, with high financial impacts on remediation in the U.S.
Step-by-step explanation:
Corrosion occurs when metals deteriorate due to the electrochemical process of oxidation. This process can lead to the formation of rust on iron, tarnish on silver, or patinas on copper when these metals are exposed to oxygen and water. The adverse impacts of corrosion are substantial, necessitating costly remediation efforts. In the United States, the annual expenditure on corrosion control is estimated to exceed half a trillion dollars. The dangers of corrosion are highlighted by historic events such as the collapse of the Silver Bridge in 1967, which was attributed to the corrosion of a suspension chain.
Preventive measures, such as the application of protective coatings and the use of corrosion-resistant alloys, are crucial in mitigating the economic and safety consequences associated with corrosion in various industrial and infrastructure applications.