The five-cent coin is made of 25% ______.

The five-cent coin is made of 25% ______.

• A. Iron
• B. Nickel
• C. Tin
• D. Zinc

Answer: (B)

Metals used in coins are chosen for durability, wear resistance, and a stable appearance. The five-cent U.S. piece is made from a copper–nickel alloy, with about 25% nickel. That means the word that fits is nickel. Nickel is added because it strengthens the alloy, helps resist corrosion, and gives the coin its characteristic silvery look while keeping production costs reasonable. Other metals wouldn’t fit as well: iron would rust easily and stain over time; tin is softer and not used in this common coin alloy; zinc is used in newer pennies, not in nickels. So, the best answer is nickel.

Metals used in coins are chosen for durability, wear resistance, and a stable appearance. The five-cent U.S. piece is made from a copper–nickel alloy, with about 25% nickel. That means the word that fits is nickel. Nickel is added because it strengthens the alloy, helps resist corrosion, and gives the coin its characteristic silvery look while keeping production costs reasonable. Other metals wouldn’t fit as well: iron would rust easily and stain over time; tin is softer and not used in this common coin alloy; zinc is used in newer pennies, not in nickels. So, the best answer is nickel.