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Which of the following metals is least likely to corrode in moist air?
Zinc
Iron
Magnesium
Copper
Copper
Copper is a noble metal with a lower position in the reactivity series compared to zinc, iron, and magnesium. Because it is less reactive, it does not easily react with oxygen or moisture in the air to form corrosion products, which is why it is often classified as a corrosion-resistant metal in standard atmospheric conditions.
Copper is a noble metal with a lower position in the reactivity series compared to zinc, iron, and magnesium. Because it is less reactive, it does not easily react with oxygen or moisture in the air to form corrosion products, which is why it is often classified as a corrosion-resistant metal in standard atmospheric conditions.
The Reactivity Series of Metals (Potassium > Sodium > Calcium > Magnesium > Aluminium > Zinc > Iron > Lead > Hydrogen > Copper > Silver > Gold).
Corrosion is an oxidation process where metals react with atmospheric oxygen and moisture.
Metals higher in the reactivity series (like Magnesium and Zinc) react rapidly, causing faster corrosion.
Copper's position below hydrogen in the electrochemical series makes it inherently more resistant to oxidation compared to reactive transition metals.
Iron (Option B) undergoes rapid oxidation in the presence of moisture to form hydrated iron oxide (rust).
Zinc (Option A) is often used in galvanization to protect iron, as it sacrifices itself to corrode instead of the steel underneath.
Magnesium (Option C) is highly reactive and forms a layer of oxide quickly, which can sometimes provide passive protection but is generally considered more reactive than copper in standard air.
Copper's resistance is why it is extensively used in electrical wiring and plumbing.
D is correct тАФ Copper is less reactive than zinc, iron, and magnesium, making it highly resistant to corrosion in moist air.
In Chemistry, remember the phrase 'Please Stop Calling Me A Careless Zebra Instead Try Learning How Copper Saves Gold' to memorize the Reactivity Series for competitive exams.