Small carbon atoms are introduced into the interstitial sites of an iron lattice to…
CHEMISTRY · Single correct · AP · Chemistry · Compound Structure and Properties · Compound Structure and Properties
Problem
Small carbon atoms are introduced into the interstitial sites of an iron lattice to form steel. Compared with pure iron, how will the electrical conductivity and malleability of the resulting solid change, and why?
(a) Both electrical conductivity and malleability increase because the interstitial carbon atoms supply extra mobile electrons and create spacing that allows layers to slide more easily.
(b) Electrical conductivity increases but malleability decreases because the added carbon provides additional conduction electrons while the distorted lattice blocks the movement of metal cores.
(c) Electrical conductivity remains high but essentially unchanged, whereas malleability decreases because the interstitial carbon atoms impede the movement of metal cores within the lattice.
(d) Electrical conductivity decreases markedly while malleability increases, as the carbon atoms localize electrons but generate planes along which layers can slide.