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Nickel is a chemical element with the symbol Ni and atomic number 28. It is a silvery-white, hard, and malleable transition metal that is widely used due to its unique properties. Nickel is the fifth most abundant element in the Earth's crust and is found in various forms, including coins, alloys, and minerals.

The discovery of nickel dates back to ancient times, with the Sulphide ore, Niccolite, being used by the ancient Greeks. The modern era of nickel production began during the Industrial Revolution, with the development of new technologies for extraction and refining. Today, nickel is extracted from various ores, such as Pentlandite and Pyrrhotite, through a process involving crushing, grinding, and flotation.

Nickel has a number of important applications due to its corrosion-resistant and heat-resistant properties. It is widely used in the production of stainless steel, which is a key component in the manufacture of kitchen utensils, cutlery, and other consumer goods. Nickel is also used in the production of alloys, such as Monel and Inconel, which are used in the aerospace and automotive industries. In addition, nickel is used in batteries, coins, and other applications where a strong magnetic response is required.

Nickel has two main isotopes, 58Ni and 60Ni, which are used as tracers in medical and scientific applications. The compound nickel carbonyl, Ni(CO)4, is highly toxic and was used as a source of nickel during World War II. Overall, nickel is a critical component in a wide range of industrial and technological applications.