Properties and uses of different kinds of steel
4 marks · Normal| Type of Steel | Composition | Main Property | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mild steel | Up to 0.25% carbon | Malleable | Car bodies |
| High-carbon steel | 0.6–1.2% carbon | Hard | Cutting tools |
| Stainless steel | Chromium and nickel | Corrosion resistant | Kitchen sinks |
From the table, state which steel would be most suitable for making food-processing equipment. Give a reason for your choice.
Suggest which steel is likely to be easiest to shape into different forms during manufacture. State the property from the table that supports your answer.
Explain, using the data, why high-carbon steel is chosen for cutting tools.
Name a disadvantage of using mild steel where water is present.
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) Stainless steel, because it is corrosion resistant.
(b) Mild steel; the table says it is malleable, making it easy to shape.
(c) High-carbon steel is hard, making it suitable for making items that need to keep a sharp edge, like cutting tools.
(d) Mild steel can rust in the presence of water.
Show mark scheme and worked solution
Marking points
B1 (a) · 1 mark · Correctly identifies stainless steel and gives relevant property (corrosion resistance).
B2 (b) · 1 mark · Correctly identifies mild steel and the property (malleable).
B3 (c) · 1 mark · Explains high-carbon steel is chosen for cutting tools because it is hard.
B4 (d) · 1 mark · Names a valid disadvantage for mild steel (e.g., rusts in water).
Worked solution
a) Stainless steel is suitable for food-processing equipment because it is corrosion resistant.
b) Mild steel, because it is malleable.
c) High-carbon steel is chosen for cutting tools as it is hard and maintains a sharp edge.
d) Mild steel can rust when exposed to water.