5.5        explain the uses of aluminium and iron, in terms of their properties

Aluminium has a high strength for its low density. This makes it suitable for aircraft manufacture. It is also malleable and resistant to corrosion as it is covered in an oxide layer. This makes it suitable for making drinks cans.  Aluminium is an excellent conductor of heat and can be used for saucepans and cooking foil.  It is an excellent conductor of electricity and is used for overhead power cables.

Iron is generally used in the form of steel (iron with a small amount of carbon). Steel is strong and relatively cheap, so it is suitable for construction of buildings and bridges, car bodies, railway lines, tools and machinery, etc.