Explain, in terms of atoms, why steel is stronger than iron.

In iron, all the atoms are of the same size so the layers can slide past each other. In steel, there are both carbon and iron atoms which are different sizes, meaning the layers are disrupted and cannot easily slide over each other.

AR
Answered by Alana Rose P. Chemistry tutor

5472 Views

See similar Chemistry GCSE tutors

Related Chemistry GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Why does Sodium Chloride have high melting point?


How many moles are in 50g of NaCl.


Why can an acid can be described as both strong and dilute?


What happens when you heat Calcium Carbonate?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2025 by IXL Learning