Why are aluminum items such as pressure cookers, saucepans, etc. anodized? A. To increase their conductivity. B. To increase their tensile strength. C. To prevent them from rusting. D. To make them lighter and shinier.

Why are aluminum items such as pressure cookers, saucepans, etc. anodized? A. To increase their conductivity. B. To increase their tensile strength. C. To prevent them from rusting. D. To make them lighter and shinier. Correct Answer C

The correct answer is To prevent them from rusting.

• Anodized aluminium is sealed so that the metal cannot leach into food or react with acidic foods.
  • Unlike ordinary, lightweight aluminium pots and pans, which are highly reactive with acidic foods (like tomatoes), anodized aluminium cookware is safe.
  • It can be present in the food we eat and the water we drink.

Additional Information

• Aluminium conducts heat well and is a less expensive metal.
  • This layer of oxide hardens the aluminium and makes it resistant to corrosion.
  • Hard anodized is an extension of the process using higher voltage and lower temperature, which results in an even harder and more durable cookware coating. 
• Anodized aluminium is still very conductive, but the surface is much harder than regular aluminium.
  • It is much more durable than, say, a nonstick pan.
  • On the other hand, like a nonstick pan, you should never wash it in the dishwasher, as it will ruin the surfaces in both cases.