Chapter 16

• What are the primary sources of materials for producing metals and alloys?

  Natural ores and mined materials
• How are metals categorized?

  As ferrous or non-ferrous
• What is an alloy?

  A blend of two or more elements
• What is the significance of metals in modern society?

  They have a high strength to weight ratio
• What is ore?

  A rock containing a pure metal
• How is metal extracted from ore?

  Using large furnaces and extreme heat
• What is Bauxite?

  An ore from which aluminium is extracted
• What process is used to extract aluminium from Bauxite?

  Electrolysis
• What do ferrous metals contain?

  Iron (ferrite)
• What happens to ferrous metals when exposed to moisture?

  They rust without a protective finish
• What is the role of carbon in iron?

  To increase the hardness of iron
• What characterizes non-ferrous metals?

  They do not contain iron
• How do non-ferrous metals react to moisture?

  They do not rust but can oxidize
• What is a common use of copper?

  Electrical cables and bespoke roofing
• What is the appearance of aluminium?

  Light grey, can be polished to a mirror finish
• What is the appearance of copper?

  Light reddish brown, oxidizes to green-grey
• What is the appearance of tin?

  Silvery white, often plated onto steel
• What is the appearance of zinc?

  Silvery grey with bluish white hue
• What are the characteristics of common non-ferrous metals?


  • Aluminium: Lightweight, high strength to weight ratio
  • Copper: Ductile, malleable, good electrical conductor
  • Tin: Soft, malleable, good electrical conductor
  • Zinc: Fair electrical conductivity, malleability, and ductility
• What is the purpose of the alloying process?

  To improve working properties or aesthetics
• What is a common use of alloys?

  Used for pots and pans
• How does alloying affect the properties of metals?

  It enhances their working properties
• What is the appearance of a typical alloy?

  Varies based on the metals used
• What is the significance of the strength to weight ratio in materials?

  It determines suitability for construction
• What is a common application of zinc?

  Galvanizing steel to prevent rusting
• Why is mild steel popular in construction?

  It has a good balance of strength and ductility
• What is the effect of oxidation on non-ferrous metals?

  It changes the surface color and properties
• How do the properties of ferrous metals differ from non-ferrous metals?

  Ferrous metals contain iron; non-ferrous do not