C1.3 Metals and their uses (2)

Question 1

Although iron from the blast furnace contains about 96% iron, it has limited uses. Why?

Answer 1

Because the impurities make it brittle

Question 2

What is a use of blast furnace iron and why?

Answer 2

• Used as cast iron

- Because of its STRENGTH in COMPRESSION

Question 3

What is the hardness of steels related to?

Answer 3

Their carbon content

Question 4

Steels are alloys of carbon and iron. Name the three steels that can be made and one property for each

Answer 4

• Low-carbon steels= easily shaped
• High-carbon steels= hard
• Stainless steels= resistant to corrosion

Question 5

Most metals in everyday use are alloys. What is the problem with pure copper, gold, iron and aluminium and how is it solved?

Answer 5

• The pure metals are TOO SOFT

- Mixed with small amounts of similar metals to make them harder for everyday use (ALLOY)

Question 6

Name four properties of transition metals

Answer 6

• Good heat/electricity CONDUCTORS
• Can be BENT/hammered into shape
• Useful as STRUCTURAL materials
• Useful making things that must allow heat/electricity through

Question 7

Copper has properties that make it useful for…

Answer 7

…electrical wiring and plumbing

Question 8

Give three properties of copper

Answer 8

• Heat/electricity conductor
• Can be bent BUT hard enough to make pipes or tanks
• Doesn’t react with water

Question 9

What are the two properties that make aluminium and titanium useful metals?

Answer 9

• Low density

- Resistance to corrosion

Question 10

What does mining involve?

Answer 10

DIGGING up and PROCESSING large amounts of rock