Metallurgy — identifying the Bessemer process output The Bessemer (converter) process refines molten pig iron by blowing air through it. Which product does this classic process primarily manufacture?

Introduction / Context:
The Bessemer process is a landmark in steelmaking history. By blowing air through molten pig iron, impurities are oxidized rapidly, dramatically reducing cost and time to produce steel. Understanding the inputs and outputs of this process is basic to materials engineering.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Starting charge: molten pig iron (high in carbon and silicon).
• Converter lining and process control tuned for decarburization and impurity oxidation.
• Historic/basic concept; modern basic oxygen steelmaking is its successor.

Concept / Approach:
Silicon and manganese oxidize first, raising temperature. Carbon then oxidizes to carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide, lowering the carbon content from several percent to a level suitable for steel. Phosphorus removal depends on lining chemistry (acid vs basic), but the principal product remains steel.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
The hallmark of the process is the rapid decarburization (the “blow”), evidenced historically by flame characteristics. The end point corresponds to the desired steel carbon level.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Pig iron (A): feedstock, not the product.
• Cast iron (B): higher carbon content; usually produced by remelting, not by Bessemer refining.
• Wrought iron (C): very low carbon and slag stringers, produced historically by puddling, not Bessemer.
• Spiegel iron only (E): a ferromanganese-carbon alloy used to recarburize/adjust, not the final product.

Common Pitfalls:
Assuming all impurities are removed in the same way in every converter; phosphorus requires a basic lining and fluxes. Modern oxygen converters refine the principle using pure oxygen.

Final Answer: