Which alloy is resistant to corrosion, does not rust, with chromium, and used for cutlery, kitchen sinks, and surgical instruments?

• A. Stainless steel
• B. Alloy
• C. Ferrous metal
• D. Non-ferrous metal

Answer: (A)

Chromium in an iron alloy forms a thin, stable chromium oxide layer on the surface that acts as a barrier to moisture and oxygen. This passive film is self-healing, so even if the surface is scratched, it reforms and continues to protect the metal from rust. That’s why stainless steel—an iron alloy with chromium (often with nickel and sometimes molybdenum)—is used for cutlery, kitchen sinks, and surgical instruments: it’s strong, easy to clean, and highly resistant to corrosion and staining. The other terms describe metal groups but don’t capture the corrosion-resistance mechanism provided by chromium in stainless steel.