Final answer:
Metals with resistance to corrosion either naturally resist oxidation, like gold and platinum, or form a protective oxide layer, like aluminum oxide, to prevent further damage.
Step-by-step explanation:
A metal that is prized for its resistance to corrosion typically has the property of being either very resistant to oxidation or capable of forming a protective oxide layer that prevents further corrosion. For example, gold and platinum are metals that do not corrode easily due to their low reactivity with common substances, making them resistant to oxidation. Other metals like aluminum, when oxidized, create a protective aluminum oxide layer that tightly clings to the surface, safeguarding the interior of the aluminum from further corrosion.
This resistance to corrosion is crucial because corrosion is a process that involves the oxidation and deterioration of metals, which can lead to significant financial costs for replacement and repair. Metals like iron are especially prone to corrosion, but the utilization of alloys such as stainless steel, containing chromium or nickel, increases resistance to corrosion due to the formation of protective oxide films on their surfaces.