Magnesium / aluminium anode rods

[mjz]

How can you tell the difference between an aluminium anode rod vs a magnesium anode rod?

I have an old "new" anode rod that I no longer recall if it is aluminium or magnesium. Is there an easy way to tell?

I prefer magnesium as it should give better protection and also is better for your health.

Thanks

 

[havasu]

Depends on what type of water you have.

 

[Geofd]

I think both of those are the standards rods I used a zinc alloy
because the hot water after sitting over ire would produce
a sulfur smell and by changing it to zinc alloy it stopped
the smell I think if you goggled for pics you may see the diffrence
good luck