Why Do Things Rust?

💡 Simple Explanation

Rust is what happens when iron meets water and oxygen - they have a party and make something new! The iron atoms grab oxygen from the air and water molecules join in. Together they make a new material called iron oxide - that's the official name for rust. It's flaky and weak, not strong like the original metal. That's why rust can make metal fall apart. Paint and other coatings keep water and oxygen away so the party never starts!