Why is stainless steel preferred for kitchen use over iron?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: C
Explanation
Solution: The correct answer is It resists corrosion.
Explanation:
☛ Stainless steel is an alloy primarily composed of iron, chromium, nickel, and carbon.
☛ It contains at least 10.5% to 12% chromium, which reacts with oxygen in the air to form a very thin, invisible, and self-healing protective layer of chromium oxide on its surface.
☛ This passive oxide layer prevents oxygen and moisture from penetrating the metal, thereby providing exceptional resistance to corrosion and rust.
☛ Ordinary iron reacts easily with air, moisture, and food acids to form rust, whereas stainless steel remains non-reactive, making it safe, durable, and hygienic for kitchen cookware and utensils.
Extra Exam-Relevant Facts:
☛ Harry Brearley is credited with the invention of modern stainless steel in 1913.
☛ A common variety of stainless steel used in cookware is known as 18/8 stainless steel, which contains approximately 18% chromium and 8% nickel.
☛ Rusting of iron: It is a chemical change that requires the simultaneous presence of both oxygen and water (moisture).
☛ Galvanization: The process of applying a protective layer of zinc over iron or steel to prevent rusting.
Important One-Liners for Upcoming Exams:
☛ Who is credited with the invention of stainless steel? → Harry Brearley
☛ Which element provides the primary corrosion resistance in stainless steel? → Chromium
☛ What is the chemical name and formula of rust? → Hydrated iron(III) oxide (Fe₂O₃·xH₂O)
☛ The process of coating iron with zinc to prevent rusting is called? → Galvanization
☛ Is the rusting of iron a physical or chemical change? → Chemical change