What is Galvanized iron?
'''Galvanized iron''' is [[iron]] that is covered by a metal that does not [[rust]], or which only rusts slowly. Galvanized iron is usually covered with [[zinc]]. The iron cannot rust because the zinc covering protects it. The zinc resists [[corrosion]] even when scraped. After the paint is scratched, metal corrodes. When the zinc has completely corroded, the iron begins to do the same. There are two ways of [[Galvanizing|galvanising]]: In hot dip galvanising, the item is put in a vat of liquid zinc. This gives a longer-lasting, thicker covering. Some people might not appreciate it as much, though, because it does not have a bright, clean surface. Also possible is electro-galvanizing. This is the process of [[electroplating]] zinc onto a surface. Although it is thinner and more sparkly, it does not last as long. [[Category:Iron compounds]]