Chemistry - Metallurgy Question with Solution | TestHub

Solution:

Zinc is primarily used for galvanizing iron. This process involves coating iron or steel with a thin layer of zinc to protect it from corrosion (rusting). Zinc acts as a sacrificial anode, corroding preferentially over iron.

Explanation:

Option 2 is correct. Galvanizing is the process of applying a protective zinc coating to steel or iron to prevent rusting. This is the most common use of zinc.

Option 1 is incorrect. Hardening of steel typically involves adding carbon and heat treatment, not zinc.

Option 3 is incorrect. Zinc does not soften iron; it protects it from corrosion.

Option 4 is incorrect. Mercury (Hg) is not typically galvanized with zinc. Galvanizing is specifically for iron and steel.