O Levels Chemistry (5070)•5070/12/M/J/18

Explanation
Aluminium Meets Both Aircraft Metal Requirements
Steps:
- Identify requirement 1: low density reduces aircraft weight for better fuel efficiency.
- Check aluminium's density: 2.7 g/cm³, lower than iron (7.9 g/cm³) or steel.
- Identify requirement 2: corrosion resistance prevents structural weakening in harsh environments.
- Verify aluminium's corrosion resistance: forms a natural oxide layer that protects against oxidation.
Why A is correct:
- Aluminium's density (2.7 g/cm³) is relatively low per material science standards, and its passive Al₂O₃ oxide layer provides inherent corrosion resistance, satisfying both conditions.
Why the others are wrong:
- B: Aluminium also resists corrosion via oxide formation, not just low density.
- C: Aluminium has low density (2.7 g/cm³), not solely corrosion resistance.
- D: Aluminium satisfies both properties essential for aircraft.
Final answer: A
Topic: Uses of metals
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