What is a common feature of high carbon steel?

High carbon steel is known for its increased carbon content, typically ranging from 0.6% to 1.4%. This higher carbon content contributes significantly to its properties, particularly its tensile strength. Tensile strength refers to the maximum amount of tensile (stretching) stress that a material can withstand without breaking. High carbon steel, due to its composition, is much stronger and harder compared to low carbon steel, which has a lower carbon content.

The increased strength allows high carbon steel to be used in various applications that require materials capable of bearing heavy loads or stress without deforming. This strength is essential for many manufacturing and engineering tasks, such as in the production of tools, blades, and machinery.

In contrast, options that describe high carbon steel as being very soft or more ductile than low carbon steel are not accurate characteristics. High carbon steel is actually more brittle than lower carbon steels, which makes it less ductile. Additionally, while high carbon steel does have some resistance to rust, it is generally more prone to corrosion compared to low carbon steels, unless properly treated or coated. Thus, the key feature that distinguishes high carbon steel is indeed its higher tensile strength, making it suitable for demanding applications.