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Galvanic corrosion
Galvanic corrosion occurs when two different metals have physical or electrical
contact with each other and immersed in a common electrolyte. The anode
(more active metal) will corrode at an accelerated rate whereas the cathode
(more noble metal) corrodes at a retarded rate. Sacrificial anodes such as zinc is
commonly used for steel structures. Galvanic corrosion is of major interest to
marine industry and any situation where water - (containing salts) contacts
structures.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Corrosion
The corroded state of a metal is the more stable state. Iron oxide is actually more
stable than pure iron or steel and therefore rusting is very common. Prevention
of rust is actually a means of retaining a less stable, or higher energy state.
The economic costs of corrosion are extremely high, with large amounts spent on
prevention of corrosion and replacement of corroded materials.
http://www.materials.unsw.edu.au/tutorials/online-tutorials/1-what-corrosion