Correct Option
The correct option is (b) 2 only.
Explanation
Electroplating is the process of depositing a layer of a desired metal onto another material using an electric current. In the context of food preservation, tin cans are manufactured by electroplating tin onto iron to combine the strength of iron with the chemical resistance of tin.
Statement-wise Analysis
- Statement 1 is Incorrect: According to the electrochemical series (reactivity series) of metals, iron is more reactive than tin. If tin were more reactive, it would corrode faster than iron when exposed to food acids and moisture, which would defeat the purpose of the coating.
- Statement 2 is Correct: Since iron is more reactive, it tends to react with food items, potentially spoiling them or causing corrosion. Tin, being less reactive, acts as a protective barrier, preventing the food from coming into direct contact with the iron.
- Statement 3 is Incorrect: The structural strength of the can is provided by the underlying iron (or steel). Tin is a relatively soft metal and is applied only as a thin coating to prevent corrosion; it does not contribute significantly to the mechanical strength of the container.
Key Takeaway
Tin is less reactive than iron and is used in electroplating to protect food from spoilage, while the iron core provides the necessary structural strength for the can.