Which chemical process limited early Chinese exploitation of sedimentary iron ores?

💡 Explanation

High phosphorus content in sedimentary iron prevented proper forging, because phosphorus stabilizes iron's allotropes, inhibiting workability. This necessitates careful ore selection, therefore limiting their availability, rather than simple slag removal or oxidation issues found with other iron sources.

• Which consequence arises when Roman roadbeds excessively deform?
• Which material vulnerability increases when casting large bronze cannons?
• Which outcome arises when fluctuating temperatures affect 'pietra dura' inlay within a Mughal-era monument?
• Which limitation inhibited widespread Byzantine fleet deployments involving Greek Fire?
• Which outcome most commonly resulted from the inherent limitations of the Roman ballista's torsion springs in sustained sieges?
• Which outcome arises from sericulture techniques limiting silkworm genetic diversity?