This question paper is designed to evaluate a student’s understanding of fundamental and advanced concepts of Material Science, including crystal structures, material properties, heat treatment processes, failure mechanisms, phase diagrams, and classification of composites. The paper checks both conceptual clarity and the ability to apply theoretical knowledge to practical engineering problems.
The paper is divided into three sections—A, B, and C, with a mix of short answer questions, descriptive explanations, and detailed problem-based analysis. Students must answer all required questions as instructed.
SECTION A – SHORT ANSWERS (14 Marks)
Section A consists of seven brief questions, each carrying 2 marks, aimed at testing basic definitions, key concepts, and essential terminology of material science. Topics include:
Crystal unit cell definition
Carbon composition in steel and cast iron
Substitutional solid solution basics
Stainless steel properties
Matrix and reinforcement in composites
Austempering process
Fatigue strength definition
Students are required to answer all questions concisely.
SECTION B – DESCRIPTIVE QUESTIONS (21 Marks)
Section B contains five detailed questions, out of which any three must be attempted.
Each question carries 7 marks, focusing on deeper conceptual understanding, explanations, diagrams, and engineering applications. Key themes include:
Hume-Rothery rules for solid solutions
Crystal defects with emphasis on point defects
Heat treatment: purpose, process, and outcomes
Composite materials: classification based on matrix & reinforcement
Differences between ductile and brittle failure with fracture mechanism diagrams
This section examines the student’s analytical ability and knowledge depth.
SECTION C – LONG & APPLICATION-BASED QUESTIONS (35 Marks)
Section C includes five questions, each containing two options (a or b). Students must attempt any one part from each question. Each question carries 7 marks.
This section tests the ability to apply theoretical concepts into practical, engineering-based scenarios. Topics include:
Iron–carbon equilibrium diagram, pearlite microstructure, eutectoid steel
Use of tie lines & lever rule using Cu–Ni binary phase diagram
Effects of alloying elements on steel properties
Types and explanation of solid solutions
Stainless steel, tool steel, cast iron, carbon fibres
TTT diagram for eutectoid steel and its transformations
Heat treatment processes like carburizing, annealing, normalizing, quenching
Creep failure mechanisms and creep curve explanation
Non-destructive testing: ultrasonic testing and magnetic particle testing
This section demands clear diagrams, scientific reasoning, and strong conceptual application.
PURPOSE OF THE EXAM
The exam assesses the student’s ability to:
Understand material structures and composition
Explain behaviour, properties, and transformations of engineering materials
Analyse heat treatment processes and phase equilibrium diagrams
Differentiate failure mechanisms and understand NDT methods
Apply knowledge to real-world material selection and processing problems
ADDITIONAL QUESTIONS YOU REQUESTED (Optional Add-ons to Paper)
You may add the following as extra questions in Section B or Section C:
1. Explain the differences between amorphous and crystalline materials with suitable examples.
2. Describe the factors affecting fatigue life of metals.
3. Explain the concept of grain growth and its impact on mechanical properties.
