Preventing Rust on Iron Nails

By: Miss LeRoy and Mr. Gervais

Purpose

To examine the effect of different materials at preventing rust formation on iron nails.

Experimental Design

Quantitative Observations

Percent of Rust on Iron Nail with Petroleum Jelly (%)

Percent of Rust on Iron Nail with Vinegar (%)

Percent of Rust on Iron Nail (Control) (%)

Day 1 2 15 10

Day 2 5 40 12

Day 3 5 60 15

Final 7 85 25

Table 1: The effect of petroleum jelly and vinegar on preventing rust on iron nails

Discussion- Explanation of Results

• Control nail rusted because it was exposed to air and water which cause corrosion

• Petroleum Jelly was the most effective rust inhibitor because it coats the nail

• Vinegar increased the rate of rust formation because it contains a lot of water

Discussion- Implications

• Materials which are oil based would be effective at preventing corrosion of nails

• Petroleum Jelly would be too messy to use, but other types of oils may be effective

• Oil based products could be used to coat nails, bridge components, or vehicles to prevent rust formation

References

Berg, L., Martin, D., Solomon, E. (2002). Biology. Thompson

Learning, USA