Skip to content
Key Take Aways:
1. Nickel is not just a coin but also a fascinating element.
2. From being named after a mischievous spirit to its use in making stainless steel, nickel has many interesting facts.
Let’s dive into the world of nickel and explore 18 fascinating facts:
1. Nickel was discovered in 1751 by Swedish chemist Axel Fredrik Cronstedt. And no, he didn’t find it under his couch cushions.
2. The name nickel actually comes from the German word kupfernickel which means Old Nick’s copper. Nick, in this case, refers to a mischievous goblin or sprite.
3. Not only is nickel used in coins, but it’s also a vital element in the production of stainless steel. So, basically, it’s everywhere, from your pocket to your kitchen.
4. If you have a nickel allergy, you might want to avoid that 5-cent coin. The allergy is quite common and can cause red, itchy skin.
5. Nickel has magnetic properties, which means it’s used in the production of magnets. It’s like the superhero of the periodic table!
6. Russia is the leading producer of nickel, followed by Canada and Australia. Maybe it’s time to consider a career change and become a nickel miner?
7. Nickel is also used in rechargeable batteries, so the next time you power up your phone, thank nickel for keeping you connected.
8. In meteorites, nickel is found in much higher concentrations than on Earth. So, maybe there are intergalactic nickel mines out there.
9. Nickel can cause pollution if not properly disposed of. Remember, kids, always recycle your nickel!
10. The United States five-cent coin, the nickel, is only 25% nickel. The rest is copper. Talk about a misleading name!
11. Nickel is not just a hard worker in the industrial world; it also plays a role in our health. Trace amounts of nickel are essential for the human body.
12. Ever heard of nickel poisoning? It can happen if you’re exposed to high levels of nickel. So, maybe don’t go chewing on your spare change.
13. Nickel is a silvery-white metal with a slight golden tinge. It’s like the James Bond of metals – classy and a little flashy.
14. The density of nickel is 8.9 grams per cubic centimeter. That’s a fancy way of saying it’s pretty heavy for its size.
15. Nickel is super versatile. It’s used in plating to provide a shiny, corrosion-resistant surface. So, thank nickel for keeping your car looking slick.
16. In ancient times, nickel was often mistaken for silver. Imagine the disappointment when they found out it was just mischievous nickel all along!
17. Nickel is a key component in the aerospace industry. So, the next time you fly in a plane, give a little nod of appreciation to nickel.
18. Despite its toughness, nickel can be recycled and reused. It’s the eco-friendly metal that keeps on giving!
FAQs about Nickel:
Q: Is nickel only used in coins?
A: Definitely not! Nickel is used in various industries, including aerospace, electronics, and healthcare.
Q: Can nickel be harmful to humans?
A: In high concentrations, nickel can be toxic. That’s why it’s essential to handle it with care.
Q: Where can I find nickel?
A: Nickel is found in the Earth’s crust and can be mined in countries like Russia, Canada, and Australia.
Q: Is nickel truly as mischievous as its name suggests?
A: Well, it does have some interesting properties, but we’ll let you be the judge of whether it’s mischievous or not!
