Anodic Half-Reaction (Iron Dissolution)

The oxidation half-reaction at the anode where iron atoms leave the lattice, lose electrons, and enter solution as ions. This is where metal is lost and where pits begin. Anodic inhibitors such as nitrite work by preventing this departure.

$$\text{Fe}\to {\text{Fe}}^{2+}+2e^{-}$$

Variables

Symbol	Meaning	Unit
Fe	Solid iron in the metal lattice	solid
$F{e}^{2+}$	Ferrous ion dissolved in water	aqueous
$e^{-}$	Electron freed into the metal path	charge

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Part of The Blueprint of Water