Q. Steel is an alloy consisting mostly of iron, with a carbon content between 0.2% and 2.1% by weight. An increasing amount of Iron will result in which of the following?
Answer: Increase Hardening
Notes: Increasing the amount of iron in steel generally leads to increased hardening. This is due to the formation of a solid solution where carbon atoms occupy interstitial spaces in the iron lattice, enhancing strength and hardness. Steel's carbon content is crucial. higher carbon levels (up to 2.1%) improve hardness but reduce ductility. The melting point of steel is also influenced by its composition, but the primary effect of increasing iron is hardening.