What is galvanization?

Galvanization is a process specifically designed to protect steel or iron from corrosion caused by rusting. It involves applying a protective coating of zinc to the surface of the metal. Zinc acts as a sacrificial layer, meaning it will corrode in place of the underlying steel or iron, thereby extending the lifespan of the material significantly when exposed to moisture and other corrosive elements.

This method is vital in construction and other industries where metal components are exposed to harsh environmental conditions. The protective layer forms a barrier that prevents oxygen and moisture from reaching the metal underneath, effectively minimizing the risk of rust and degradation over time.

The other choices describe different processes related to steel and iron work but do not pertain to galvanization. Welding, heat treatment, and bending techniques are all essential skills in metalworking but serve other purposes, such as joining materials, altering physical properties through heat, and reshaping metal, respectively.