Would zinc be an a appropriate metal to use for cathodic protection?

Yes, zinc is an appropriate metal for cathodic protection, particularly for underwater structures and pipelines. It serves as a sacrificial anode, corroding preferentially to protect the more valuable metal structures from corrosion. Zinc's relatively low electrochemical potential makes it effective in preventing rust and corrosion in various environments. However, its suitability may depend on specific environmental conditions and the types of metals being protected.