Aluminium is more reactive than iron, yet aluminium window frames do not corrode away like iron. Why?

Aluminium does not react with oxygen at allCorrect answerYour answerAluminium is always painted before useCorrect answerYour answerA thin, tough layer of aluminium oxide forms and protects the metal underneathCorrect answerYour answerAluminium is less reactive than ironCorrect answerYour answer

Show the answer and explanation

CorrectNot quiteAnswer C

Correct answer: C

Aluminium reacts with oxygen at once, but the oxide it forms sticks firmly to the surface.
This film seals the metal from air and water. Rust on iron, by contrast, is flaky and falls off, exposing fresh iron.

Worth noting

The question states that aluminium is more reactive, so the answer must explain protection, not low reactivity.

Concept: Protective oxide layers
Typical timeTypical: 90 s
Your timeYours: —

The rule this testsMetals and non-metals

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Ten questions from Everyday Chemistry, at your own pace.

Aluminium is more reactive than iron, yet aluminium window frames do not corrode away like iron. Why?

Explanation