The element with atomic number 30 is zinc. Zinc atoms contain 30 protons, and the element’s chemical symbol is Zn.
Zinc is a bluish-white metal and the first element in group 12 of the periodic table. In ordinary chemical compounds, it most commonly forms ions with a +2 charge. Its major ore is sphalerite, or zinc blende, which is primarily zinc sulfide.
One of zinc’s most familiar uses is galvanizing iron and steel. A zinc coating helps protect the underlying metal from corrosion, which is why galvanized steel is common in construction and infrastructure. Zinc is also combined with copper to make brass, an alloy used for instruments, fittings, and hardware.
The distractors are different elements: germanium is 32, gallium is 31, and zirconium is 40. Zinc is also important biologically in small amounts, supporting enzymes and normal immune function, although excessive intake can be harmful.