Description The chemical reaction for rusting begins by oxidation, which is when iron loses two of its electrons to the oxygen found in the tank. When you place a Magnesium or aluminum rod Into water, this also occurs, just much faster. The bonds between the molecules of Magnesium and aluminum give up their electrons faster than the bonds in steel or iron. Thus, when you place an aluminum or Magnesium anode rod Into an iron or steel tank of water, the oxygen in the equation takes the two electrons of the anode rod instead of the tank, as they gave them up quicker. This will rust the anode rod, but not the tank itself
