What are steels primarily made of?

Steels are primarily made of alloys of iron with carbon and other metals. The alloying of iron with carbon is what gives steel its strength and durability compared to pure iron. The carbon content can vary, influencing the properties of the steel, such as hardness, tensile strength, and flexibility. Other metals, such as manganese, chromium, and nickel, may also be added to enhance specific characteristics, such as corrosion resistance or machinability. This composition allows for a wide range of steel types, each suitable for various applications, from construction to automotive manufacturing.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately describe steel composition. Aluminum and copper alloys do not produce steel, while pure metals, without any alloys, lack the enhanced properties needed for structural applications. Lastly, combinations of gold and silver are not related to steel production at all, as they refer to precious metals rather than iron-based alloys.