Zinc is considered a sacrificial metal to which material?

Zinc is considered a sacrificial metal primarily to steel and iron in corrosion protection applications. The concept of a sacrificial metal refers to a metal that is intentionally corroded to protect another metal from corrosion. In this case, when zinc is applied as a protective coating on steel or iron, it will corrode preferentially, thus preserving the integrity of the underlying steel or iron substrate. This process, known as galvanization, is widely used to enhance the lifespan of steel structures and components by preventing rust and deterioration.

When exposed to environmental conditions, zinc will oxidize and form a protective layer that helps to inhibit further corrosion. This mechanism makes zinc an excellent choice for extended protection of metals that are prone to corrosion, particularly in outdoor or marine environments.