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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between Metal and Steel?

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The main difference between metal and steel is that metals are naturally occurring elements found in the Earth's crust, while steel is an alloy made from iron and carbon. Here are the key differences between the two:

  • Origin: Metals are chemical elements, while steel is an alloy made from iron and carbon.
  • Purity: Metals are pure elements, whereas steel is not a pure element but rather a variant of a metal.
  • Carbon Content: Steel has varying amounts of carbon content, typically ranging from 0.5 to 1.5 percent.

In summary, steel is not technically a metal but rather an alloy of iron and carbon, which gives it distinct properties and characteristics compared to naturally occurring metals. Some common metals include titanium, copper, and nickel, while steel is an alloy made from iron with added carbon.

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  • What is the Difference Between Metal and Steel?
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    • Comparative Table: Metal vs Steel

    The main difference between metal and steel is that steel is an alloy of iron with varying amounts of carbon content, while metals are elements that occur naturally in the Earth's crust. Here is a table comparing the differences between metal and steel:

    Feature Metal Steel
    Definition Metals are elements that occur naturally in the Earth's crust, such as gold, silver, copper, and iron. Steel is an alloy of iron and carbon, with carbon content ranging from 0.5 to 1.5 percent. Other elements like chromium, nickel, and manganese can also be added to create different types of steel.
    Composition Metals are pure elements. Steel is an alloy, not a pure element.
    Properties Metals are generally malleable, ductile, and conductive. Steel is strong, durable, and flexible, but less malleable than pure metals.
    Manufacturing Metals are extracted from the Earth and can be refined or processed for various applications. Steel is created by combining iron with carbon and other elements, often through a process called metal rollforming.
    Examples Gold, silver, copper, and iron are examples of metals. Stainless steel, carbon steel, and alloy steel are examples of steel types.

    In summary, metals are pure elements with specific properties, while steel is an alloy of iron and carbon with additional elements that enhance its strength, durability, and versatility.

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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.