Not usually an issue generally people want to stop rusting not not stop it. Salt water, heat and oxygen would probably work quite well. It would also rust faster if it had an increased surface area. Possible problems include the sacrificial metals that will be oxidised preferentially or metals with insoluble oxides being present in the sample that would protect the iron component.
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When metal tarnishes, it forms a layer of corrosion on its surface due to exposure to air, moisture, or other chemicals. This layer can give the metal a dull or discolored appearance. Tarnishing does not usually affect the structural integrity of the metal but can be removed through polishing or cleaning.
A metal tarnishes due to oxidation. It forms an oxide layer on the metal.
eg: copper, when new it is shiny, but after a time outside, it goes green. This is due to
oxidation and is called a tarnish.
There are several methods to prevent metals from tarnishing. If storing the metals, place several pieces of chalk with the metals and it will absorb the chemicals that create tarnish.
Oxygen
Carbon dioxide
Chemical change
They OVERLAP
Yttrium is a solid metal at r.t.