a) Briefly discuss how plastic deformation occurs in crystalline
materials. Discuss the important methods of strengthening used in
(i) cold rolled 1018 steel, (ii) 2024Al alloy in T6 heat treated
condition, (iii) brasses, and (iv) quenched and tempered 1045
steel.
What is a solid solution and what are the common types
encountered in metals? Provide examples of common engineering
alloys for each type (e.g. steel). Explain how a solid solution can
help raise the strength of a metal. List some of the other methods
of strengthening metals.
Describe grain size refinement, solid solution strengthening,
precipiation hardening, and work hardening. Why and when do you use
each of these strengthening processes?
Explain the following using your knowledge of muscle contractions.
How is it possible that we can delicately pick up a flower, yet the
same muscles can squeeze/crush a pop can? You should discuss motor
units/neurons, muscle fibres, frequency (of motor neurons firing =
fibre contraction) and the All-or-None Principle.
Please use the characteristics of chemical bonding, crystal
structures and dislocations to explain why metallic materials are
strong and ductile and why ionic and covalent materials are strong
but brittle?