When a metal reacts with oxygen, a metal oxide forms. The general equation for this reaction is: metal + oxygen → metal oxide. Rust is a form of iron oxide and it forms slowly when iron is exposed to air. Iron can be transformed to steel (an alloy), which is more resistant to rust.

Do all metals react with oxygen in the same way?

All metals react with oxygen except silver (Ag_(s)), platinum (Pt_(s)) and gold (Au_(s)). In general, metals react with oxygen to form metal oxides. ... The ease with which a metal reacts is known as its activity. A more active metal will react more readily with oxygen than a less active metal.

How do metals react with oxygen explain with one example?

Metals react with oxygen to form metal oxides. These metal oxides are basic in nature. Magnesium oxide dissolves in water to form magnesium hydroxide solution. ... 3)During the rusting of iron,iron metal combines slowly with the oxygen of air in the presence of water to form a compound called iron oxide.