Corrosion typically affects which type of materials most commonly?

Corrosion is a natural process that primarily affects metals, making them the most common materials susceptible to this phenomenon. This is due to the fact that metals can lose electrons to their environment, leading to reactions with oxygen, moisture, or other corrosive agents. These reactions can result in the deterioration of the metallic structure, often manifesting as rust or other forms of degradation.

Metals, such as steel and iron, undergo oxidation, where they react with oxygen in the presence of water or electrolytes, significantly weakening their integrity over time. The mechanisms of corrosion are well-studied, which is why protective measures, such as cathodic protection, are often employed to mitigate these effects.

On the other hand, materials like plastics, composites, and ceramics are generally much more resistant to corrosion. Plastics do not contain metal elements that can oxidize easily, while many composites are designed to withstand harsh environments. Ceramics might also resist chemical attack and maintain their structure under various conditions. Thus, while all materials can degrade under certain circumstances, metals are significantly more prone to corrosion compared to the others listed in the choices.