Properties and uses of different kinds of steel
2 marks · EasyA manufacturer needs a material that is both malleable and can be drawn into wires for making bridges and electrical cables. Suggest which type of steel from the following is best suited, and give one reason using its properties.
| Type of steel | Properties |
|---|---|
| Mild steel | Strong, malleable, ductile, |
| High-carbon steel | Hard, wear-resistant, brittle |
| Stainless steel | Corrosion-resistant, less malleable |
Give the name of the type of steel and one property that makes it suitable.
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Show answer
Mild steel; it is malleable (easy to shape) and ductile (can be drawn into wires)
(a) Mild steel; malleable or ductile · must show Name mild steel, State property (malleable or ductile)
Must show: Name mild steel, State malleable or ductile property
Also accept: Mild steel; it is easily shaped or drawn into wires; Mild steel; it is ductile
Common mistakes: Naming high-carbon or stainless steel; Giving the wrong property
Show mark scheme and worked solution
Marking points
M1 (a) · 1 mark · Identifies mild steel as the most suitable.
M2 (a) · 1 mark · Names a correct property (malleable or ductile).
Worked solution
The best type of steel is mild steel because it is malleable (can be hammered into shape) and ductile (can be drawn into wires).