A Quick Quiz On Metals

Explanation
Fusibility refers to the ability of a substance to melt when exposed to heat. It is a physical property because it can be observed and measured without changing the chemical composition of the substance. This property is important in determining how a substance can be processed or used, such as in metalworking or glassmaking.

Explanation
Hardness refers to the ability of a metal to resist scratching, wear, and deformation. It is a measure of the material's resistance to indentation or penetration. Metals with high hardness are less likely to be scratched or damaged by external forces. Therefore, hardness is the correct answer as it directly relates to the metal's ability to withstand scratching, wear, and other forms of deformation.

Explanation
Pig iron is manufactured in a blast furnace. A blast furnace is a type of furnace used to produce pig iron by smelting iron ore, coke, and limestone. The process involves the reduction of iron ore into liquid iron in a high-temperature environment. The blast furnace is designed to withstand the intense heat and pressure required for this process. The other furnace options mentioned, such as cupola furnace, puddling furnace, and bessemer furnace, are used for different purposes and not specifically for manufacturing pig iron.

Explanation
Cast iron cannot be forged because of its property of brittleness. Brittle materials have low ductility and tend to fracture easily when subjected to stress or impact. This makes cast iron unsuitable for forging processes, which require the material to be shaped and formed under high pressure and temperature. Instead, cast iron is commonly used in applications where its high strength and wear resistance are desired, such as in engine blocks or pipes.

Explanation
Grey cast iron is the correct answer because it is a type of cast iron that contains carbon in the form of graphite. This type of cast iron has a grey appearance due to the graphite flakes present in its microstructure. Grey cast iron is known for its excellent castability, good machinability, and high wear resistance, making it suitable for a wide range of applications such as engine blocks, pipes, and automotive components.

Explanation
Wrought iron is considered the purest form of iron because it has a very low carbon content, typically less than 0.08%. It is made by heating iron ore in a furnace with charcoal or coke, which removes impurities and creates a malleable and ductile iron. Wrought iron is known for its excellent corrosion resistance and is often used in decorative and ornamental applications. It is also easily welded and forged, making it a versatile material. In contrast, cast iron contains a higher carbon content and other impurities, pig iron is the crudest form of iron, and steel is an alloy of iron and carbon.

Explanation
The correct answer is the bessemer converter. The bessemer converter is a type of furnace used for the mass production of steel. It was invented by Henry Bessemer in the 19th century and revolutionized the steel-making process. The converter works by blowing air through molten iron, which oxidizes impurities and lowers the carbon content, resulting in high-quality steel. This method allowed for faster and more efficient production of steel compared to other furnaces like the blast furnace, cupola furnace, and puddling furnace.

Explanation
High speed steel is mainly used for manufacturing cutting tools because it has excellent heat resistance, hardness, and wear resistance. It can withstand high temperatures generated during cutting operations without losing its hardness. High speed steel also retains its sharpness for a longer period of time, making it ideal for cutting tools that require frequent use. Additionally, it has good toughness, which helps in preventing chipping or breaking of the cutting edges.

Explanation
Tungsten steel has the property of improved resistance to high temperature oxidates. Tungsten is known for its high melting point and excellent heat resistance, making it a suitable alloying element for steel. The addition of tungsten to steel improves its ability to withstand high temperatures and oxidation, making it ideal for applications where heat resistance is required, such as in the manufacturing of tools and equipment used in high-temperature environments.

Explanation
Nickel steel is the correct answer for the type of steel used to manufacture magnets. Nickel steel is known for its high magnetic permeability, which makes it ideal for creating magnets. It contains a significant amount of nickel, which enhances its magnetic properties. This type of steel is commonly used in the production of permanent magnets, electromagnets, and magnetic cores for various applications.