Which statement best distinguishes casting from forging in terms of process, microstructure, and typical applications?

Which statement best distinguishes casting from forging in terms of process, microstructure, and typical applications?

• A. Casting pours liquid metal into a mold; forging shapes metal under compressive loads; forging yields refined grain and higher strength; casting is used for complex shapes.
• B. Casting uses mechanical forming; forging uses molds; Casting yields fine grain; forging has poor strength.
• C. Casting and forging are identical processes.
• D. Forging pours liquid metal into a mold; casting shapes metal under compressive loads; casting yields refined grain and higher strength; forging is used for complex shapes.

Answer: (A)