Which of the following statements about nickel in steel is correct?

• A. Nickel provides strength and malleability to steel.
• B. Nickel increases brittleness of steel.
• C. Nickel does not provide strength and malleability to steel.
• D. Nickel makes steel non-magnetic.

Answer: (C)

Nickel in steel acts as a solid-solution strengthener and a toughening agent. By stabilizing the austenitic phase, nickel lets the steel deform more before cracking, which increases ductility (malleability) and impact toughness. At the same time, solid-solution strengthening from nickel raises yield and tensile strength. This combination—more strength with greater ability to bend and absorb energy—is a key reason nickel-containing steels perform well in applications requiring both strength and formability. The idea that nickel does not contribute to strength or malleability overlooks these effects, and in common nickel-containing grades, you’ll see improved toughness and ductility alongside higher strength.