'Steel' is an “Alloy.” In the same way, “Zinc” should be classified as which of the following? Choose the most accurate category.

Introduction / Context:
Classification analogies test whether you can place items into correct scientific categories. Steel is correctly classified as an alloy (primarily iron with carbon and other elements). The question asks for the correct classification of zinc by analogy.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Steel → Alloy (mixture category).
• Zinc is a chemical element (symbol Zn, atomic number 30).
• We must not confuse elemental categories with mixture categories.

Concept / Approach:
Zinc is a metallic element, not an alloy (mixture) and not a non-metal or halogen. Therefore, none of the listed specific categories (non-metal, halogen, alloy) is correct for zinc, leaving “None of these” as the accurate choice. While zinc is used to make alloys (e.g., brass is copper + zinc), zinc itself is not an alloy.

Step-by-Step Solution:
1) Identify the category logic: composition/class vs element.2) Recognize zinc as a metal element.3) Since “metal” is not offered, and other options are wrong, select “None of these.”

Verification / Alternative check:
Periodic table classification labels zinc as a transition/post-transition metal; it is not a halogen or non-metal.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Non-metal: Zinc is metallic.
• Halogen: Halogens are Group 17 elements (F, Cl, Br, I, At, Ts), not zinc.
• Alloy: Zinc is a pure element, not a mixture.

Common Pitfalls:
Confusing “used in alloys” with “is an alloy.”

Final Answer:
None of these