Which metal is used to galvanize nails to prevent corrosion?

Which metal is used to galvanize nails to prevent corrosion?

• A. Iron
• B. Tin
• C. Zinc
• D. Copper

Answer: (C)

Galvanizing nails uses a zinc coating to stop rust because zinc provides sacrificial protection and a durable barrier. Zinc is more reactive than iron, so when moisture and electrolytes are present, zinc corrodes first, protecting the iron core of the nail. If the coating is scratched, the surrounding zinc continues to protect the steel by acting as a sacrificial anode. Over time, zinc also forms protective oxide and carbonate layers that help seal the surface. Tin, copper, and iron don’t offer this effective, long-lasting protection for nails in the same way, which is why zinc is the coating chosen for galvanizing.

Galvanizing nails uses a zinc coating to stop rust because zinc provides sacrificial protection and a durable barrier. Zinc is more reactive than iron, so when moisture and electrolytes are present, zinc corrodes first, protecting the iron core of the nail. If the coating is scratched, the surrounding zinc continues to protect the steel by acting as a sacrificial anode. Over time, zinc also forms protective oxide and carbonate layers that help seal the surface. Tin, copper, and iron don’t offer this effective, long-lasting protection for nails in the same way, which is why zinc is the coating chosen for galvanizing.