Question

The non-metallic component in stainless steel is:
(A) Sulphur
(B) phosphorus
(C) carbon
(D) iodine

Answer 1

Hint: Steel is an alloy of mainly iron and a nonmetal. This non-metal helps to improve the strength of raw iron as well increase its resistance to fracture. The non-metal belongs to the 14th group of the periodic table and exhibits tetravalency as well as catenation.

Complete step-by-step answer:
Stainless steel is a group of iron-based alloys that contain a minimum percentage of 11 of chromium. This prevents the alloy from rusting as well gives it heat resisting properties. Along with that, different types of steel include the non-metal carbon.
The composition of carbon varies from 0.03% to greater than 1% as well. Elements like nitrogen, aluminium, silicon, sulphur, selenium and molybdenum are also added in minute traces.
From the above explanation we can conclude that the non-metallic component used in the formation of stainless steel is carbon. The element fits the explanation provided in the hint.
Carbon belongs to the 14th group of the periodic table. It shows excellent catenation property along with its tetravalency which is a distinguishing feature of the group 14 elements.
Therefore, the correct answer is option (C).

Note: The resistance of stainless steel towards corrosion can be increased by the following ways:
- Increasing the chromium content above the present 11%.
- Addition of about 8% of nickel metal.
- Addition of molybdenum to the existing alloy.
It is important to know that addition of molybdenum improves the steel's resistance to pitting corrosion as well.