Understanding Engineering Metals Quiz

Which of the following is a ferrous metal commonly used in engineering?

• Aluminium

• Steel

• Copper

• Titanium

Answer explanation

Steel is a ferrous metal, meaning it contains iron, which is commonly used in engineering for its strength and durability. In contrast, aluminium, copper, and titanium are non-ferrous metals.

What is the primary property that distinguishes metals from non-metals?

• High electrical conductivity

• Low melting point

• Brittle nature

• Poor thermal conductivity

Answer explanation

The primary property that distinguishes metals from non-metals is high electrical conductivity. Metals are good conductors of electricity due to their free-moving electrons, while non-metals typically have low conductivity.

Which of the following is an example of a non-ferrous metal?

• Cast iron

• Brass

• Stainless steel

• Wrought iron

Answer explanation

Brass is a non-ferrous metal, composed mainly of copper and zinc. In contrast, cast iron, stainless steel, and wrought iron are ferrous metals, containing iron.

What is the main component of the alloy bronze?

• Aluminium

• Zinc

• Copper

• Nickel

Answer explanation

The main component of bronze is copper, which typically comprises about 90% of the alloy. Other elements like tin may be added, but copper is the primary metal that defines bronze.

Which property of metals allows them to be drawn into wires?

• Malleability

• Ductility

• Hardness

• Brittleness

Answer explanation

Ductility is the property of metals that allows them to be stretched into wires without breaking. This is in contrast to malleability, which refers to being shaped into sheets, and brittleness, which indicates a tendency to break easily.

What is the typical composition of stainless steel?

• Iron and carbon

• Iron, chromium, and nickel

• Copper and tin

• Aluminium and magnesium

Answer explanation

Stainless steel is primarily composed of iron, chromium, and nickel. Chromium provides corrosion resistance, while nickel enhances strength and ductility, making this combination essential for stainless steel's properties.

Which of the following metals is known for its high corrosion resistance?

• Iron

• Copper

• Aluminium

• Zinc

Answer explanation

Aluminium is known for its high corrosion resistance due to the formation of a protective oxide layer. In contrast, iron rusts easily, copper can corrode, and zinc is primarily used as a protective coating.

What is the process of recovering and reprocessing metals from waste materials called?

• Smelting

• Recycling

• Alloying

• Casting

Answer explanation

The process of recovering and reprocessing metals from waste materials is called recycling. This involves collecting, processing, and reusing materials to reduce waste and conserve resources.

Which metal is commonly used in the aerospace industry due to its strength-to-weight ratio?

• Lead

• Titanium

• Gold

• Silver

Answer explanation

Titanium is favored in the aerospace industry for its excellent strength-to-weight ratio, making it ideal for aircraft components. In contrast, lead, gold, and silver are heavier and less suitable for this application.

What is the main advantage of using alloys over pure metals?

• Lower cost

• Improved properties

• Easier to melt

• More abundant

Answer explanation

The main advantage of using alloys over pure metals is their improved properties. Alloys often exhibit enhanced strength, corrosion resistance, and other desirable characteristics that pure metals may lack.