The correct option is (c).
Explanation
The location of the iron and steel industry is primarily determined by the availability of raw materials (coal, iron ore, limestone), water supply, and efficient transport networks. Pittsburgh, USA, historically known as the "Steel City," exemplifies these locational factors.
Statement-wise Analysis:
- Statement 1 is Correct: Pittsburgh is situated in the heart of the Northern Appalachian coal belt, ensuring abundant local availability of high-quality coking coal. However, iron ore is not available locally; it is sourced from the iron mines in Minnesota (specifically the Mesabi Range), located approximately 1,500 km away.
- Statement 2 is Incorrect: The Great Lakes waterway is a critical component of the transport logistics for the Pittsburgh steel industry. Iron ore from Minnesota is shipped via the Great Lakes to ports on the southern shore of Lake Erie (such as Cleveland or Ashtabula). From there, the ore is transported by train to Pittsburgh. This route is one of the world's most cost-effective bulk transport corridors.
- Statement 3 is Correct: Pittsburgh is geographically located at the confluence of the Monongahela and Allegheny rivers, which merge to form the Ohio River. These rivers provide an abundant water supply essential for the cooling processes in steel manufacturing and serve as inland waterways for transporting finished steel products.
Key Takeaway:
The Pittsburgh steel industry relies on local coal, iron ore imported from Minnesota via the Great Lakes waterway, and the water resources provided by the Ohio, Monongahela, and Allegheny rivers.