ANS:A - tension

The suitability of steel for its use in a cable is primarily judged by its strength in tension. When used in a cable, steel is typically subjected to tensile forces as it bears the load and is stretched. Therefore, the steel's ability to withstand tension without breaking or deforming is crucial for ensuring the structural integrity and safety of the cable. Strength in compression, torsion, and shear are also important properties of steel, but they are less relevant when assessing its suitability for use in a cable, as cables primarily experience tensile forces.