Iron is often galvanized to protect it against corrosion. Galvanizing is a process of coating iron or steel with a layer of zinc to prevent rusting. The zinc acts as a sacrificial anode, which means that it corrodes before the iron or steel underneath it, providing a protective layer that prevents the underlying metal from coming into contact with moisture and oxygen, which are the main agents of corrosion. This process helps to extend the lifespan of iron or steel objects and structures.