Chapter 20, Problem 85A

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: How redox reactions will help shipbuilders is to be explained.

Concept introduction: The reactions that involve both oxidation and reduction are redox reactions.

Answer to Problem 85A

Ships are made up of iron and are more prominent to undergo redox reactions in the sea. So the idea about redox reactions will therefore help shipbuilders in making ships.

Explanation of Solution

Ships are made up of iron and are more susceptible to corrosion. The oxidation of iron is responsible for the corrosion of iron. In the oceans, seawater contains a bulk amount of $NaCl$ and thereby it can act as an electrolyte. Thereby, increasing the oxidation process of Fe. The oxidation of Fe is,

  $Fe\to F{e}^{2+}+2e^{-}$

While oxygen present in water undergo reduction as,

  $O_2+2H_{2}O+4e^{-}\to 4O{H}^{-}$

Thus the overall reaction is,

  $F{e}^{2+}+2O{H}^{-}\to Fe{\left(OH\right)}_2$

The corrosion of metals can be prevented by coating the surface of metals with paint, oil, grease, carbon fiber, etc.

The idea of redox reaction thereby helps shipbuilders to reduce the oxidation process of iron.