Question

What happens when Manganese is added to steel?

(a) decreases strength and hardness of steel

(b) improves corrosion resistance

(c) decreases ductility

(d) improves strength and hardness of steel

The question was posed to me by my school teacher while I was bunking the class.

Origin of the question is Properties of Steel topic in division Materials, Structures and Specifications of Design of Steel Structures

Answer 1

The correct option is (d) improves strength and hardness of steel

Best explanation: Manganese is added to improve strength and hardness of steel . Based on Manganese content, steel are classified as Carbon Manganese steel (Mn >1%) and Carbon Steel (Mn <1%). If its content exceeds 1.5%, it increases the formation of martensite and hence decreases ductility and toughness.