Carbon steel is a type of steel that contains carbon as its primary alloying element. It is known for its strength and durability, making it a popular choice in construction and manufacturing. The carbon content can vary, typically ranging from 0.05% to 2.0%, which affects the steel's hardness and flexibility. There are three main categories of carbon steel: low, medium, and high carbon steel. Low carbon steel is easy to shape and weld, while high carbon steel is much harder and used for tools and blades. Overall, carbon steel is versatile and widely used in various applications, from automotive parts to structural beams.