Which element is used as an alloying element in steel and provides corrosion resistance?

• A. Nickel
• B. Zinc
• C. Vanadium
• D. Magnesium

Answer: (A)

Nickel is added to steel to boost its resistance to corrosion, especially in stainless steels. It helps stabilize the austenitic structure and works with chromium to form a protective layer that resists attack in many environments, while also improving toughness. Zinc, by contrast, is typically applied as a surface coating (galvanizing) to protect steel from corrosion rather than being an alloying element inside the steel itself. Vanadium mainly enhances strength and wear resistance, not corrosion resistance. Magnesium isn’t used as the primary corrosion-resistance alloying element in steel either. So nickel is the element that provides corrosion resistance when added as an alloying element in steel.