The silver undergoes oxidation in presence of air. - Finally, after sufficient time, when silver reacts with oxygen and hydrogen sulphide present in the air, it forms Silver sulphide. Silver sulphide is also black in colour. This process is termed as tarnishing of silver or corrosion.
Why do silver articles become black?
Silver article turns black when kept in the air because silver reacts with sulphur compounds such as hydrogen sulphide (H2S) present in air and forms silver sulphide.
Why do silver articles become black on prolonged exposure to air?
Silver articles turn black after prolonged exposure to air due to the reaction of sulphur present in air. Silver reacts with sulphur to form dark grey to black silver sulphide.
