Heavy metals like cadmium, nickel and manganese are extensively used in which items?

• A. Dry Batteries
• B. Glassware
• C. Paints
• D. Fabrics

Answer: (A)

Heavy metals such as cadmium, nickel, and manganese play key roles in battery chemistry because of their electrochemical properties that enable energy storage and stable reactions. In dry batteries, cadmium and nickel form the active electrode materials in nickel–cadmium types, delivering reliable performance and long life. Manganese dioxide acts as the depolarizer and cathode component in many dry-cell designs, helping to control the chemical reactions and produce current. Because of these specific roles, dry batteries are the items where these metals are most extensively used.

Paints do use cadmium pigments and manganese-based pigments, but the combined, widespread use of all three metals is most characteristic of battery technology. Glassware and fabrics rely on different materials and pigments, so they don’t reflect the same level of extensive use for this metal trio.