0654.C9.3.02 — State that alloys can be harder and stronger than the pure metals and are more useful: past paper questions
Real questions on 0654.c9.3.02 — state that alloys can be harder and stronger than the pure metals and are more useful
The newest 6 of 6 written questions. Open one to see it on the real paper.
- 0973/31 · October/November 2025 · Q7c(i)[1]
State the meaning of the term alloy.
See it on the paper → - 0973/32 · May/June 2025 · Q7d(iii)[1]
Stainless steel is another alloy. State why stainless steel is used in cutlery.
See it on the paper → - 0973/41 · October/November 2023 · Q8b(ii)[1]
Chromium is added to iron to form the alloy stainless steel. Describe how the properties of iron are changed by adding chromium.
See it on the paper → - 0973/31 · October/November 2021 · Q5b(i)[1]
State what is meant by an alloy.
See it on the paper → - 0973/41 · October/November 2021 · Q11b[1]
Iron metal corrodes. Stainless steel is an alloy made from iron and chromium. Describe one difference in the properties of the alloy stainless steel and the metal iron.
See it on the paper → - 0973/42 · May/June 2019 · Q8c(iii)[2]
Suggest two differences in the physical properties of steel and iron.
See it on the paper →
What examiners said
This question was well answered by most candidates, with those that gained credit generally referring to resistance to rusting or steel being strong. Candidates should be encouraged not to comment on cost in this type of question.
— Examiner report, May/June 2025, 0973/32 Q7(d)(iii) (Cambridge)
The majority of candidates described the property of iron when chromium is added as not rusting or being more resistant to rusting. A few candidates incorrectly described various changes in melting points and boiling points because of the change in bonding between the iron and chromium.
— Examiner report, October/November 2023, 0973/41 Q8(b)(ii) (Cambridge)
A wide range of answers were seen with many candidates referring to differences in melting and boiling points as well as malleability, ductility and hardness. Responses giving vague references to strength were not awarded credit.
— Examiner report, May/June 2019, 0973/42 Q8(c)(iii) (Cambridge)
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