Which one of the following is the major impurity in pig iron?

Options

A. Mn
B. P
C. Graphite
D. S

Answer

To determine the major impurity in pig iron, we can follow these steps:

### Step 1: Define Pig Iron
Pig iron is an intermediate product in the iron industry. It is also referred to as crude iron.

**Hint:** Remember that pig iron is produced from iron ore and is not pure iron.

### Step 2: Understand the Production Process
Pig iron is obtained by smelting iron ore in a blast furnace. This process involves heating the ore with carbon (usually in the form of coke) and limestone.

**Hint:** Consider the materials used in the smelting process and how they might affect the purity of the final product.

### Step 3: Identify Impurities
During the smelting process, various impurities can be introduced. The most common impurities in pig iron include sulfur, phosphorus, and carbon.

**Hint:** Think about the elements that are commonly found in iron ores and how they might remain in the pig iron after processing.

### Step 4: Focus on Major Impurity
Among these impurities, the major impurity in pig iron is graphite, which is an allotrope of carbon.

**Hint:** Recall the definition of allotropes and how different forms of carbon can exist.

### Step 5: Conclusion
Therefore, the major impurity present in pig iron is graphite.

**Final Answer:** The major impurity in pig iron is graphite.