Properties and uses of different kinds of steel
3 marks · EasyTable 1 gives the compositions and typical uses of different steels.
| Type of steel | Composition | Use |
|---|---|---|
| Mild steel | up to 0.25% carbon | bridges |
| High-carbon steel | 0.6–1.2% carbon | masonry nails |
| Stainless steel | chromium (and nickel) | cooking utensils |
Which type of steel is best for making cutting tools?
Explain why high-carbon steel is suitable for this use.
Give one reason why stainless steel is used for cooking utensils.
Work this out on paper, then compare with the answer and worked solution below. With a free account you can submit written answers for marking.
Show answer
(a) High-carbon steel
(b) It is hard and resistant to wear.
(c) It is resistant to corrosion.
Show mark scheme and worked solution
Marking points
B1 (a) · 1 mark · Identifies high-carbon steel for cutting tools.
B2 (b) · 1 mark · States that high-carbon steel is hard and/or resistant to wear.
B3 (c) · 1 mark · States that stainless steel is resistant to corrosion (or rust).
Worked solution
a) High-carbon steel is best for making cutting tools.
b) High-carbon steel is hard and resistant to wear, which is important for cutting tools.
c) Stainless steel is used for cooking utensils because it is resistant to corrosion and does not rust.