Test: Iron & Steel - JAMB MCQ

Iron is a metallic element and is known for its high electrical conductivity. It is widely used in electrical wiring, transformers, and various electrical components due to its ability to efficiently conduct electric current.

Pig iron is the form of iron that is obtained directly from the blast furnace. It has a high carbon content, typically around 3-4%, along with other impurities. Pig iron is not suitable for most applications and requires further processing to produce useful iron and steel products.

Steel is extensively used in the construction industry due to its high strength and durability. It is an alloy of iron with carbon and other elements such as manganese, chromium, and nickel. The addition of these elements imparts superior mechanical properties to steel, making it suitable for structural applications.

One of the main advantages of steel over iron is its superior strength and lighter weight. Steel has a higher tensile strength and yield strength compared to iron, allowing for the construction of structures that can bear larger loads with smaller cross-sections. Additionally, steel structures tend to be lighter, making them more cost-effective and easier to transport.

Wrought iron is known for its resistance to corrosion. It contains a very low carbon content and is usually coated with a protective layer, such as paint or varnish, to prevent exposure to moisture and air. Wrought iron is commonly used for outdoor decorative items, fences, and gates.

Iron is a ferromagnetic material, meaning it possesses a natural magnetic property. Due to this property, iron is widely used in the production of magnets, electromagnets, and magnetic storage devices. The magnetic property of iron allows it to be easily magnetized and demagnetized.

Wrought iron is produced by refining pig iron. The refining process involves removing impurities, primarily carbon, from pig iron through a process called puddling. Wrought iron is relatively pure and has a fibrous structure, making it malleable and ductile.

Cast iron is commonly used for making automotive bodies and engine blocks. It has excellent casting properties, high wear resistance, and good heat retention, making it suitable for engine components that operate under high temperatures and mechanical stress.

Steel is commonly used as reinforcement in concrete structures due to its high tensile strength and resistance to corrosion. Concrete is strong in compression but weak in tension. By incorporating steel reinforcement, the composite material becomes capable of withstanding both compression and tension, resulting in more durable and long-lasting structures.

One of the major advantages of using steel in the manufacturing industry is its excellent weldability and formability. Steel can be easily joined using various welding techniques, allowing for the fabrication of complex structures. Additionally, steel can be formed into different shapes and sizes through processes such as rolling, forging, and bending, providing versatility in manufacturing applications.