(b) When the Statue of Liberty was refurbished, Teflon spacers were placed between the iron skeleton and the copper metal on the surface of the statue. What role do these spacers play?

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the materials involved. The Statue of Liberty has an iron skeleton and a copper surface. Iron and copper are two different metals with distinct properties.
2. Step 2: Consider the concept of galvanic corrosion. When two different metals are in contact in the presence of an electrolyte (like rainwater), a galvanic cell can form, leading to corrosion of the more reactive metal.
3. Step 3: Identify the role of Teflon spacers. Teflon is a non-conductive material, which means it can act as an insulator between the two metals.
4. Step 4: Explain how Teflon spacers prevent corrosion. By placing Teflon spacers between the iron and copper, the direct contact is eliminated, preventing the formation of a galvanic cell and thus reducing the risk of corrosion.
5. Step 5: Conclude the importance of the spacers. The Teflon spacers help preserve the structural integrity of the statue by preventing the iron from corroding, which would weaken the structure over time.