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Tarnish is a thin layer of corrosion that forms over copper, brass, silver, aluminum, and other similar metals as their outermost layer undergoes a chemical reaction.Oxidation is defined as the interaction between oxygen molecules and all the different substances they may contact, from metal to living tissue. However, Tarnish does not always result from the sole effects of oxygen in the air. For example, silver needs hydrogen sulfide to tarnish; it does not tarnish with only oxygen. It often appears as a dull, gray or black film or coating over metal whereas oxidation usually results in brown or green.

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Tarnishing specifically refers to the discoloration or dullness of a metal surface due to chemical reactions with substances like air or moisture. Oxidation is a broader term that refers to the chemical reaction of a material with oxygen, leading to changes in the material's properties or appearance. So, tarnishing is a type of oxidation that specifically affects metals.

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Q: What is the difference between tarnishing and oxidation?
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Why are rusting and tarnishing examples of corrosion?

Rusting and tarnishing are examples of corrosion because they involve the chemical reaction of a material with its environment, leading to degradation of the material's surface. In rusting, iron reacts with oxygen in the presence of water to form iron oxide (rust), while tarnishing involves the reaction of metals with substances in the air, such as sulfur or carbon dioxide, leading to discoloration and degradation of the material's surface.


What is the difference between the two compounds FeBr2 and FeBr3?

The main difference between FeBr2 and FeBr3 is the oxidation state of iron. In FeBr2, iron has a +2 oxidation state, whereas in FeBr3, iron has a +3 oxidation state. This results in different chemical and physical properties for the two compounds.


When metals react with the oxygen in air what it is called?

When metals react with the oxygen in the air, it is called oxidation. This process forms metal oxides on the surface of the metal, which can lead to rusting or tarnishing.


Is silverware tarnishing physical or chemical change?

Tarnishing of silverware is a chemical change. It occurs when the silver in the utensils reacts with sulfur compounds in the air or food to form silver sulfide, creating a dark layer on the surface of the utensils.


What is difference between cupric chloride and cuprus chloride?

Cupric chloride refers to the compound CuCl2, where copper has a +2 oxidation state. Cuprous chloride refers to the compound CuCl, where copper has a +1 oxidation state. This difference in oxidation state affects the chemical and physical properties of these compounds.