Anodizing is an electrochemical process that is used to create a protective oxide layer on the surface of a metal, typically aluminum. The process involves immersing the metal in an electrolytic solution and applying an electric current to it. 

Here are the steps involved in anodizing: 

1. Cleaning the surface: The first step is to clean the surface of the metal to remove any dirt, grease, or other contaminants that may be present. This is typically done by washing the metal in an alkaline solution or by using a degreaser.
2. Pre-treatment: After cleaning, the metal is typically treated with an acidic solution to prepare it for anodizing. This pre-treatment step is important to ensure that the oxide layer will form evenly on the surface of the metal.
3. Anodizing: Once the metal is pre-treated, it is immersed in an electrolytic solution, typically sulfuric acid. The metal is then connected to the positive electrode, or anode, and a direct current (DC) is applied. As the current flows through the electrolytic solution, an oxide layer begins to form on the surface of the metal.
4. Coloring: Depending on the desired end use, the metal may be dyed to give it a specific color. This is typically done by immersing the metal in a solution of a dye that is absorbed into the porous oxide layer.
5. Sealing: After anodizing and coloring, the metal is typically sealed to improve the durability of the oxide layer. This is typically done by immersing the metal in boiling water or by using a sealing solution.

The resulting oxide layer created through anodizing is typically much thicker and more durable than the naturally occurring oxide layer on the surface of the metal. This makes the metal more resistant to corrosion, wear, and scratching, and also provides a surface that can be painted or coated.