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Presentation Questions

The document consists of two main questions related to materials science, focusing on crystal structures, defects, and diffusion processes. It includes calculations for density and diffusion, explanations of various defects, and comparisons between single and polycrystalline materials. Additionally, it discusses the impact of temperature on diffusion rates and the influence of bonding types on material properties.

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8 views2 pages

Presentation Questions

The document consists of two main questions related to materials science, focusing on crystal structures, defects, and diffusion processes. It includes calculations for density and diffusion, explanations of various defects, and comparisons between single and polycrystalline materials. Additionally, it discusses the impact of temperature on diffusion rates and the influence of bonding types on material properties.

Uploaded by

gusvudzoinnocent
Copyright
© All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd

Question 1

a) A metallic element has a body-centred cubic (BCC) crystal structure with a lattice
parameter of 2.86 Å and atomic mass of 55.85 g/mol.
i. Determine the number of atoms per unit cell. [3
Marks]
ii. Calculate the theoretical density of the metal.
[4 Marks]
iii. Compare the calculated density with an experimental value of 7.85 g/cm³ and
comment on any difference. [3
Marks]
b) Using neat and clearly labeled diagrams, illustrate and explain:
i. Vacancy defect [3
Marks]
ii. Screw dislocation [3
Marks]
iii. Grain boundary [3
Marks]
c) Explain, in five clear points, how crystalline imperfections affect the mechanical
properties of metals. [5
Marks]
d) Explain three ways crystal defects influence mechanical behaviour. [3
Marks]
e) Distinguish between single crystals and polycrystalline materials with examples.
[3 Marks]

Question 2
A materials engineer working at a heat treatment facility is tasked with improving
the surface hardness of mild steel shafts used in industrial machinery through
carbon diffusion.

a) Using Fick’s First Law, explain how carbon atoms diffuse into the steel
surface during the process, clearly defining each term in the equation.
[6 Marks]

b) Given a diffusion coefficient of 1.2 × 10⁻¹¹ m²/s, estimate the time required
for carbon atoms to diffuse to a depth of 0.5 mm.
[5 Marks]
c) Explain how increasing temperature affects diffusion rate using atomic-level
arguments. [4
Marks]

d) Describe three types of atomic bonding found in engineering materials, giving


one practical example for each.
[6 Marks]

e) Explain how bonding type influences melting point and electrical


conductivity. [4 Marks]

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