What causes iron to rust?

A close-up photograph of a pile of rusty metal nails

Source: © Getty Images

Use this class experiment to help students investigate what conditions are needed for iron to rust. Includes kit list and safety instructions.

In this practical, students put iron nails in various conditions including wet, dry, air-free and salty to find out what causes iron to rust. 

Make your lessons pop

Choose an account option to continue exploring our full range of articles and teaching resources

Register for a personal account

Free

Free access for everyone, everywhere. If you only need a few resources, start here.


What's included

  • One free teaching resource each month
  • Five free Education in Chemistry articles each month
  • Personalised email alerts and bookmarks
UK and Ireland only

Join Teach Chemistry

Free for eligible users

Free and comprehensive access for teachers and technicians at secondary schools, colleges and teacher training institutions in the UK and Ireland.


What's included

  • Unlimited access to our resources and practical videos
  • Unlimited access to Education in Chemistry articles
  • Access to our online assessments
  • Our teacher well-being toolkit and personal development resources
  • Applications for funding to support your lessons

Subscribe for extended access

£80 per year

Get unlimited articles and resources each month, plus discounts on professional development courses.


What's included

  • Unlimited access to our resources and practical videos
  • Unlimited access to Education in Chemistry articles
  • 10% off our self-led professional development courses