Why is it that aluminum metal oxidizes more readily than iro

Why is it that aluminum metal oxidizes more readily than iron but aluminum is considered to be a metal that usually does not “rust?”

Solution

when aluminum metal is placed in the atmosphere, a thin layer, known as aluminum oxide, forms on the metal\'s surface and acts like a protective, rust-resistant shield.

The corrosion process of both iron and aluminium are similar. When exposed to water and air ( oxygen ) they form oxides in an electrochemical process. The difference arises because of the nature of the oxides. The iron oxides layer formed flakes off thus exposing the iron underneath. But the aluminum oxides produced form a protective layer over the metal preventing further exposure and corrosion.