Q1: Which of the following contains the least percentage of carbon ?

ANS:B - Wrought iron

Wrought iron is a type of iron with a very low carbon content, usually less than 0.1%. It is nearly pure iron, with small amounts of slag or fibrous impurities distributed throughout the metal. Wrought iron is distinguished by its fibrous appearance when fractured, which is a result of its manufacturing process. Here are some key points about wrought iron:

1. Manufacturing Process: Wrought iron is produced through a process called puddling, which involves melting pig iron (the product of the initial smelting of iron ore) in a reverberatory furnace. The molten iron is stirred and exposed to oxidizing gases to oxidize the carbon and other impurities, which are then removed as slag. The resulting nearly pure iron is then worked (wrought) into shape by hammering, rolling, or forging.
2. Characteristics: Wrought iron is known for its fibrous texture and grainy appearance. It is relatively soft and malleable, making it easy to work with using traditional blacksmithing techniques. Wrought iron also exhibits good ductility, meaning it can be stretched or bent without breaking. Additionally, wrought iron has excellent corrosion resistance, especially when compared to other forms of iron.
3. Applications: Historically, wrought iron was widely used in construction, particularly for decorative elements such as gates, railings, and balconies, as well as for hinges, nails, and other hardware. Its malleability allowed it to be shaped into intricate designs, and its corrosion resistance made it suitable for outdoor use. However, with the advent of modern steel production methods, wrought iron has largely been replaced by steel in most structural applications.
4. Modern Use: Today, wrought iron is still valued for its aesthetic qualities and is used in architectural restoration, heritage preservation, and ornamental metalwork. While traditional wrought iron production has declined, modern versions of wrought iron, often made from mild steel with a similar appearance, are still manufactured and used for decorative purposes.