Question

First element to be removed during steel making by BOF method is:

• A. Cadmium
• B. Carbon
• C. Silicon
• D. Manganese

Hint:

In the BOF steelmaking process, \textbf{silicon is oxidized first} due to its strong affinity for oxygen — forming silica that enters the slag.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding BOF Method
The Basic Oxygen Furnace (BOF) process is a primary method used in steelmaking. In this process, pure oxygen is blown at high velocity over molten pig iron to oxidize impurities. Step 2: Oxidation Sequence of Elements
In the BOF process, elements in the molten pig iron are oxidized based on their affinity for oxygen: - Silicon has the highest affinity and gets oxidized first to form SiO\(_2\) (slag). - Manganese and carbon are oxidized later as the reaction proceeds. - Cadmium is not a major constituent in steel and is irrelevant in this context. Step 3: Reaction of Silicon
\[ \text{Si} + \text{O}_2 \rightarrow \text{SiO}_2 \] This reaction occurs at the initial stage of blowing due to silicon’s high reactivity. Conclusion: The first element to be removed in the BOF process is silicon.