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Activity 3.12 — Rusting of Iron

NCERT Activity 3.12: Investigate the conditions necessary for rusting of iron. Set up three test tubes with different conditions and observe which ones cause rusting.

How To Perform

1

Set Up Tube A

Iron nails + tap water (partially immersed). Nails contact BOTH air and water.

2

Set Up Tube B

Iron nails + boiled distilled water + oil layer. Nails contact water but NOT air.

3

Set Up Tube C

Iron nails + dry air + CaCl₂ + rubber stopper. Nails contact air but NOT water.

4

Wait & Observe

After one week, observe which nails have rusted and draw conclusions.

⚠️ Safety Notes

  • •Handle iron nails carefully — rusty nails can cause tetanus if they puncture skin.
  • •Boiling water can cause burns — use test tube holders.