Explain the significance of carbon content in determining the properties of steel and how it affects its strength, hardness, and ductility.

Carbon content plays a crucial role in determining the mechanical properties of steel. Low-carbon steels (up to 0.3% carbon) are relatively soft, ductile, and easily machinable, making them suitable for applications requiring formability and weldability, such as automotive components and structural steel. High-carbon steels (above 0.6% carbon) exhibit increased hardness, strength, and wear resistance but reduced ductility, making them suitable for applications like tool steel, springs, and cutting tools. Carbon content influences the microstructure of steel, affecting its ability to be hardened through heat treatment and its overall mechanical performance.