A Visual Encyclopedia of the Periodic Table

67

Transition Metals

them look like silver – a trick still used to make

inexpensive ornamental objects. Nickel is also

mixed with copper to make an alloy called

cupronickel. This is used as plating on propellers

and other metallic parts of ships, as the alloy does

not corrode in seawater. The same alloy is used

in most of the world’s silver-coloured coins.

Nickel is used in the strings of electric

guitars. This element is added to chromium

to make an alloy called nichrome. Wires made

of this alloy conduct heat very well, so are

used in toasters.

Uses

Rust-resistant

handle

This nickel-plated

instrument has

a shiny finish.

The US five cent

coin is made of an

alloy of 75% copper

and 25% nickel.

This silver-coated

fork is made of an

alloy of nickel,

copper, and zinc.

These nickel-plated

guitar strings help

create a clear tone.

Nickel alloy wires

heat up to make toast.

Toaster

Nickel-plated dagger

Electric guitar

Nickel-copper alloy

plating makes propellers

strong and durable.

Ship propeller

This coin

from the USA,

made of a nickel-

copper alloy,

is called a

Nickel

Nic

keline Nicke

l-based

(^) co
in
Nickel^ goblet^ drum
A temporary magnet works when it is put in a magnetic
field, but a permanent magnet retains its charge even when
it is taken out of that field. Nickel is one of only a few
elements that can be used to make permanent magnets.

1. Atoms in a piece of nickel
   metal are arranged randomly.


2. When a magnetic field
   is applied, the atoms align
   in one direction.


3. The atoms then stay aligned
   and produce a magnetic field of
   their own, even after the external
   field is removed.
   PERMANENT MAGNETS
   Nickel cutlery
   066-067_Nickel.indd 67 12/12/16 5:38 pm