Chromium is a hard, shiny metal element that resists rust and corrosion remarkably well. Scientists discovered it in 1797, and its name comes from the Greek word for color because chromium compounds create brilliant reds, yellows, greens, and oranges.

You encounter chromium every day, though you might not realize it. The shiny trim on cars, the gleaming faucets in bathrooms, and many stainless steel appliances all contain chromium. When manufacturers coat objects with a thin layer of chromium in a process called chrome plating, they create that mirror-like finish you see on motorcycles and classic cars.

Chromium also makes steel much stronger and more resistant to rust. Stainless steel, which stays clean and doesn't corrode easily, contains chromium mixed with iron. Without chromium, your family's kitchen sink would rust and stain quickly.

The element appears on the periodic table with the symbol Cr. Your body actually needs tiny amounts of chromium to help process sugars and fats, and you get all you need from ordinary food like broccoli, whole grains, and meat.