Test: Important alloys & their uses - UPSC MCQ

Nichrome is an alloy of nickel and chromium, commonly used in electrical wires due to its high electrical resistance. It can withstand high temperatures and is often used in heating elements for various appliances.

Pewter is primarily made from tin, along with small amounts of other metals such as copper, antimony, and bismuth. It is a soft metal alloy traditionally used for making tableware, decorative items, and figurines.

Aluminum alloys, such as aluminum-magnesium and aluminum-copper alloys, are widely used in the aerospace industry for making aircraft bodies. They offer a combination of lightweight properties and high strength.

Bronze, an alloy of copper and tin, is commonly used for making coins in many countries. It has good durability, resistance to corrosion, and can be easily molded into desired shapes.

Duralumin is an aluminum alloy that contains copper as its primary component. It is lightweight, yet strong and is commonly used in the construction of aircraft structures and parts.

Alnico is an alloy composed of aluminum, nickel, and cobalt, along with small amounts of iron and other elements. It is used in making magnets due to its strong magnetic properties.

Amalgam is an alloy used in dental fillings. It is primarily composed of a mixture of mercury and other metals, such as silver, tin, and copper. Amalgam fillings are durable and long-lasting.

Nickel silver, also known as German silver, is an alloy of copper, nickel, and zinc. It is commonly used in making high-quality musical instruments like saxophones, flutes, and trumpets.

Aluminum alloys, known for their lightweight properties and good thermal conductivity, are used in the production of automobile pistons. They help reduce the weight of the engine and improve fuel efficiency.

Invar is an alloy primarily composed of iron and nickel. It exhibits low thermal expansion properties, making it useful in precision instruments, such as clocks, scientific devices, and measuring tapes.

Stainless steel, an alloy of iron, chromium, and sometimes other metals, is commonly used in the construction of bridges and buildings due to its high tensile strength, corrosion resistance, and durability.

Titanium alloys are used in making surgical instruments and implants due to their biocompatibility, strength, and resistance to corrosion. They are commonly used in orthopedic and dental applications.

Tungsten is used for making the filaments of incandescent light bulbs due to its high melting point and resistance to high temperatures. It can withstand the heat generated by the filament and emit bright light.

Stainless steel is used in making heat-resistant utensils like saucepans and frying pans. It offers excellent heat conductivity, durability, and resistance to corrosion, making it ideal for cooking purposes.

Constantan is an alloy primarily made from copper and nickel. It is widely used in resistance wires and strain gauges due to its low electrical resistance and high resistance to oxidation.

Copper alloys, such as brass and bronze, are commonly used in making electrical contacts due to their high electrical conductivity. They help facilitate efficient flow of electricity.

Cast iron is used in making automobile engine blocks due to its excellent heat retention properties and high wear resistance. It can withstand high temperatures and provides structural strength.

Silver alloys, often mixed with copper or other metals, are used in making jewelry. They offer lustrous appearance, durability, and are less prone to tarnishing compared to pure silver.

Titanium alloys, known for their high-temperature resistance, strength, and light weight, are used in making jet engine components. They can withstand the extreme conditions and stresses encountered in aerospace applications.

Nichrome is an alloy primarily composed of nickel and chromium. It is known for its high electrical resistance and is commonly used in heating elements, such as those found in toasters and electric ovens.