The correct answer is C. Zinc.
A dry cell is a type of battery that uses a chemical reaction to produce electricity. The anode of a dry cell is made of zinc, which is a metal that is easily oxidized. The cathode of a dry cell is made of manganese dioxide, which is a non-metallic oxide. The electrolyte of a dry cell is a paste made of ammonium chloride and zinc chloride.
When a dry cell is used, the zinc anode is oxidized, and the manganese dioxide cathode is reduced. This chemical reaction produces an electric current. The current flows from the anode to the cathode through the electrolyte.
Dry cells are commonly used in small electronic devices, such as flashlights, toys, and calculators. They are also used in some larger devices, such as hearing aids and smoke detectors.
Here is a brief explanation of each option:
- Option A: Iron is a metal that is not easily oxidized. Therefore, it would not be a good choice for the anode of a dry cell.
- Option B: Cadmium is a metal that is more easily oxidized than zinc. However, it is not as common as zinc, and it is more expensive. Therefore, it is not the most common choice for the anode of a dry cell.
- Option C: Zinc is a metal that is easily oxidized. It is also a common and inexpensive metal. Therefore, it is the most common choice for the anode of a dry cell.
- Option D: Lead is a metal that is not easily oxidized. However, it is more toxic than zinc. Therefore, it is not the preferred choice for the anode of a dry cell.