. Does temper embrittlement affect the hardness and tensile properties of the material: a) Yes, it significantly reduces them b) Yes, it increases them c) No, it has no effect on them d) No, but it reduces the elongation

a) Yes, it significantly reduces them<br /><br />Temper embrittlement is a phenomenon that occurs in certain steels and alloys when they are tempered at a specific temperature range, leading to a significant reduction in their toughness and ductility. This can result in a decrease in the material's hardness and tensile properties, making it more brittle and prone to cracking or failure under stress. Therefore, temper embrittlement can have a negative impact on the hardness and tensile properties of the material.