what are the two classes of metals?
explain what are the differences between iron and steel?
differentiate between brass and bronze?
give an application for each of the above?
The two classes of metals are ferrous metals and non-ferrous metals.
1. Iron and Steel:
Iron and steel are both ferrous metals, which means they primarily contain iron as their main component. However, there are some differences between them.
Iron:
- Iron is a chemical element with the symbol Fe and atomic number 26.
- It is a relatively soft metal with a silver-gray appearance.
- Iron is malleable and ductile, meaning it can be easily shaped or stretched under pressure.
- It has a lower carbon content compared to steel.
- Pure iron is not as strong as steel and tends to corrode easily when exposed to moisture.
Steel:
- Steel is an alloy of iron and carbon, usually with smaller amounts of other elements like manganese, chromium, or nickel.
- It is harder and stronger than iron due to the addition of carbon, which increases its overall strength.
- Steel is more resistant to corrosion compared to iron, especially when it contains additional elements like chromium (stainless steel).
- There are different types of steel with varying carbon content, such as low carbon steel, medium carbon steel, and high carbon steel, each with different properties.
Applications:
- Iron is commonly used in construction, manufacturing tools, and household appliances, such as nails, wires, pipes, and cookware.
- Steel, with its increased strength and durability, is used extensively in the construction industry for structural frameworks, bridges, buildings, and automotive manufacturing.
2. Brass and Bronze:
Brass and bronze are both non-ferrous metals, meaning they do not contain iron as their primary component. They have different compositions and properties.
Brass:
- Brass is an alloy of copper and zinc.
- It has a yellow-golden appearance, similar to that of gold.
- Brass is relatively malleable and ductile, allowing it to be easily shaped into various forms.
- It has good corrosion resistance and is highly conductive of heat and electricity.
- Brass can be polished to provide an attractive finish.
Bronze:
- Bronze is an alloy primarily composed of copper, with the addition of other elements such as tin, aluminum, or nickel.
- It has a reddish-brown appearance, similar to copper.
- Bronze is harder and more brittle than brass.
- It has excellent corrosion resistance and is known for its durability and low friction properties.
Applications:
- Brass is commonly used in musical instruments, plumbing fittings, electrical connectors, and decorative items like jewelry and statuary.
- Bronze is often used in the manufacturing of bearings, gears, sculptures, medals, and coins, as well as for architectural and marine applications due to its corrosion resistance.