Which of the following is a general corrosion factor?

• A. Increase in temperature
• B. Increase in dissolved oxygen
• C. Decrease in pH
• D. All of the above

Answer: (D)

General corrosion rate is driven by environmental conditions that accelerate electrochemical reactions at the metal surface. Temperature speeds up reaction kinetics and ion diffusion, so higher temperatures lead to faster corrosion. Dissolved oxygen provides the oxidant for the metal, so more oxygen means more cathodic activity and a higher overall rate. Lower pH (more acidic conditions) increases hydrogen ion concentration, which accelerates metal dissolution and can destabilize protective films, boosting corrosion. Since each of these factors increases the general corrosion rate, all of the above is the best choice.