GATE CE 2024 Set 1 — Question 29

MSQ+1 / -0MediumStructural Steel CompositionConstruction MaterialsStructural Engineering

Structural Engineering → Construction Materials → Structural Steel Composition

Last updated 5 September 2026

Question

The elements that DO NOT increase the strength of structural steel are

Correct answer (C) Sulphur; (D) Chlorine Solution Carbon and Manganese are alloying elements added to steel specifically to increase its tensile strength and hardness. Sulphur is generally considered an impurity in structural steel; while it can improve machinability, it typically reduces ductility and weldability and causes 'hot shortness' (brittleness at high temperatures) without increasing strength. Chlorine is not an alloying element used in the production of structural steel. Therefore, Sulphur and Chlorine do not increase the strength. Turn this into a strength. Explore AI-powered practice and doubt support with Success Tracker.

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Correct answer (C) Sulphur; (D) Chlorine Solution Carbon and Manganese are alloying elements added to steel specifically to increase its tensile strength and hardness. Sulphur is generally considered an impurity in structural steel; while it can improve machinability, it typically reduces ductility and weldability and causes 'hot shortness' (brittleness at high temperatures) without increasing strength. Chlorine is not an alloying element used in the production of structural steel. Therefore, Sulphur and Chlorine do not increase the strength.

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