Which metal is often used in sacrificial protection for iron?

Zinc is commonly used in sacrificial protection for iron due to its more reactive nature compared to iron. When zinc is in contact with iron, it acts as a sacrificial anode, which means that it corrodes preferentially while protecting the iron from rusting. This occurs because zinc has a higher tendency to lose electrons (oxidize) than iron, allowing it to corrode itself instead of the iron.

This method of protection is particularly useful in various applications, such as galvanizing steel, where a layer of zinc is applied to prevent rusting. By sacrificing itself, zinc effectively prevents the degradation of the underlying iron, ensuring longer-lasting metal structures and components.