Carbon steel is a type of steel that primarily consists of iron and carbon. The carbon content typically ranges from 0.05% to 2.0%, which affects its hardness and strength. It is widely used in construction, manufacturing, and various industrial applications due to its durability and cost-effectiveness. There are three main categories of carbon steel: low, medium, and high carbon steel. Low carbon steel is malleable and easy to weld, while medium carbon steel offers a balance of strength and ductility. High carbon steel is very strong but less ductile, making it suitable for tools and high-stress applications.