Definition of Corrosion

Meaning in Chemistry, Etymology, and Example

Rust is a good example of corrosion.
Rust is a good example of corrosion. PhotoStock-Israel, Getty Images
By
Anne Marie Helmenstine, Ph.D.
Anne Marie Helmenstine, Ph.D.
Chemistry Expert
  • Ph.D., Biomedical Sciences, University of Tennessee at Knoxville
  • B.A., Physics and Mathematics, Hastings College
Dr. Helmenstine holds a Ph.D. in biomedical sciences and is a science writer, educator, and consultant. She has taught science courses at the high school, college, and graduate levels.
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Updated on December 08, 2019

Corrosion Definition: Corrosion (from the Latin word corrodes, meaning "to gnaw") is the irreversible damage or destruction of living tissue or material due to a chemical or electrochemical reaction.

Example: A prime example of corrosion is rusting of iron or steel.

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Helmenstine, Anne Marie, Ph.D. "Definition of Corrosion." ThoughtCo, Feb. 16, 2021, thoughtco.com/definition-of-corrosion-604960. Helmenstine, Anne Marie, Ph.D. (2021, February 16). Definition of Corrosion. Retrieved from https://www.thoughtco.com/definition-of-corrosion-604960 Helmenstine, Anne Marie, Ph.D. "Definition of Corrosion." ThoughtCo. https://www.thoughtco.com/definition-of-corrosion-604960 (accessed March 27, 2023).
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