A metal in the vicinity of higher concentration of oxygen will be more _____.

A metal in the vicinity of a higher concentration of oxygen tends to become more noble. This behavior is primarily related to the electrochemical properties of metals and their tendency to undergo oxidation or reduction reactions in the presence of oxygen.

When metals are exposed to oxygen, they can either oxidize (lose electrons) or form a protective oxide layer, which can inhibit further corrosion and oxidation processes. Noble metals, like gold and platinum, have a high resistance to oxidation due to their ability to maintain their metallic state in oxidizing environments.

In contrast, active metals readily oxidize and corrode when exposed to oxygen, making them less noble in terms of electrochemical behavior. Thus, the increased concentration of oxygen can lead to the passivation of certain metals, enhancing their nobility and reducing their overall reactivity. This transition is crucial in understanding corrosion resistance and the behavior of various metals in different environments.