Forks and spoons are most commonly made of stainless steel because it provides a combination of strength, low density, low cost, and resistance to rust, making it suitable for regular use in eating utensils. Unlike iron, stainless steel does not rust, ensuring durability and longevity. Compared to silver, stainless steel is more affordable and does not tarnish, while wood can break and absorbs water, making it less practical for utensils. Thus, stainless steel’s overall properties make it the ideal choice for forks and spoons.
Stainless steel is a synthetic material made of iron mixed with other elements. One common use of stainless steel is in forks and spoons used for eating.
Other materials could also be used for making forks and spoons. The following table lists some properties of several materials.
Material Strength Density (g/cm3) Cost Other
stainless steel strongest 7.9 low synthetic
iron strong 7.9 lowest rusts
silver bends and scratches 10.5 high tarnishes
wood can break 0.6 low absorbs water
Which statement best explains why forks and spoons are most commonly made of stainless steel instead of the other materials listed?
1 answer