What typically happens when zinc is exposed to air?

• A. It forms a thin layer of zinc oxide that protects it from further corrosion.
• B. It reacts violently, producing hydrogen gas.
• C. It remains completely unchanged and does not react.
• D. It rapidly rusts, forming iron(III) oxide.

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that zinc is a metal that can react with components in the air, primarily oxygen.
2. Recall that when many metals are exposed to air, they can undergo oxidation, forming a metal oxide layer on their surface.
3. Recognize that zinc forms a thin, adherent layer of zinc oxide (ZnO) when exposed to air, which acts as a protective barrier preventing further corrosion.
4. Contrast this behavior with metals like iron, which rust by forming iron oxides that flake off and expose fresh metal to corrosion.
5. Conclude that zinc does not react violently or remain completely unchanged; instead, it forms a protective oxide layer that slows down further reaction.