Solving Materials Problems: Electronic Configuration & Steel Microstructure

[jcsolis]

I am answering a take home test but I am stucked with two questions:

1) How does electronic configuration affects chemical reactivity?

2) Describe the microstructure of a piece of steel after roling in one direction to achieve 20% reduction by cold working

Homework Statement

Numbers are not given

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution

I can´t find an answer in my book...so I am asking for your help guys..

Thanks

 

[Astronuc]

1) How does electronic configuration affects chemical reactivity?

The answer would be found in a textbook on introductory chemistry.

Think of the periodic table and the relationship of the atomic number Z to the number of electrons, and the resulting electronic structure. The valence electrons determine the types of bonds an element forms. Look at the alkali and alkaline Earth metals, as opposed to transitional metals, semi-metals, halogens and noble gases.

2) Describe the microstructure of a piece of steel after rolling in one direction to achieve 20% reduction by cold working

What happens when rolls a piece of steel with a permanent deformation which achieves 20% reduction (cold work)? What happens to the grains when they are compressed?

One consequence in the increase in dislocations in the metal. Dislocation density affects strength and ductility.

Also think about what happens in recrystallization.