Question

Can gold rust?

Answer 1

Hint: Let us first discuss rust before we address the question. Rust is an iron oxide, a typically reddish-brown oxide generated when iron and oxygen react catalytically in the presence of water or air moisture. Rust is made up of hydrous iron(III) oxides and iron(III) oxide-hydroxide, and it is commonly associated with refined iron corrosion.

Complete answer:
Rust is a term that refers to a group of iron oxides and hydroxides that form when iron or iron alloys are exposed to oxygen and moisture for an extended length of time. The oxygen reacts with the metal over time, generating new chemicals that are collectively known as rust. Although rust is commonly referred to as "oxidation," the term encompasses a wide range of processes involving the loss of electrons or an increase in oxidation state as part of a reaction. The most well-known of these reactions involves the presence of oxygen, hence the term "oxidation." The phrases "rust" and "rusting" refer to the oxidation of iron and the compounds that arise. There are numerous oxidation reactions that do not contain iron or result in rust. However, only iron and iron alloys can rust.
When it comes to the topic of whether gold can rust or not, the answer is no. Gold has the distinction of being one of the least reactive elements in the periodic table. Because gold can not easily mix with oxygen, it does not rust or tarnish in its pure form. This is why pure gold retains its lustre. Pure gold jewellery pieces are quite rare when it comes to gold jewellery.

Note:
Water is the primary catalyst in the rusting process. Water molecules can infiltrate the minuscule pits and fissures in any exposed metal structure, even if it appears to be solid. Water molecules include hydrogen atoms, which can interact with other elements to generate acids, exposing additional metal in the process. Corrosion will likely develop more quickly if chloride ions are present, as they are in saltwater. Meanwhile, the damaging oxide molecule is formed when oxygen atoms mix with metallic atoms. The metal weakens when the atoms join, making the structure fragile and crumbly.