Stabilization of stainless steel is achieved by adding:
**Core Concept**
The stabilization of stainless steel involves the addition of an alloying element to prevent chromium carbide precipitation at the grain boundaries, thus preventing intergranular corrosion. This process is crucial in maintaining the corrosion resistance of stainless steel.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer is **A. Titanium (Ti)**. Titanium is added to stabilize stainless steel by occupying the lattice sites in the chromium carbide, thereby preventing its precipitation at the grain boundaries. This mechanism is based on the principle of isomorphous substitution, where titanium atoms replace chromium atoms in the lattice. As a result, the chromium carbide precipitates are prevented from forming, and the stainless steel retains its corrosion-resistant properties.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
* **Option B:** Carbon (C) is not a stabilizing element for stainless steel. In fact, high carbon content can lead to the formation of chromium carbide precipitates, which can cause intergranular corrosion.
* **Option C:** Molybdenum (Mo) is an alloying element added to stainless steel to improve its corrosion resistance, particularly in acidic environments. However, it does not stabilize the steel by preventing chromium carbide precipitation.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Remember the acronym **"Ti"** for Titanium, which is a key stabilizing element in stainless steel. This can help you recall the importance of titanium in preventing intergranular corrosion.
**Correct Answer: A. Titanium (Ti)**