What is the term for a joint created by the joining of metal parts in a molten state?

A joint created by the joining of metal parts in a molten state is referred to as a welded joint. Welding involves the process of melting the base metals at their joining surfaces and allowing them to fuse through the cooling process, creating a strong bond. This method is widely used in various industries due to its ability to produce durable and cohesive joints that can support significant loads.

Welded joints are commonly utilized in structural applications such as building frameworks, vehicle manufacturing, and pipeline construction, where the integrity and strength of the joint are critical. The welding process can vary, encompassing techniques like arc welding, MIG, and TIG, each suited for different types of metal and application requirements.

The other options represent different methods of joining materials. A soldered joint involves the use of a filler material that has a lower melting point than the workpieces, so it doesn't use molten metal from the base materials like welding does. Plastic adhesive joints rely on chemical bonding rather than melting, while brazing also uses a filler metal but is capped at a lower temperature than welding and doesn't involve melting the base materials themselves. Understanding these distinctions clarifies why welded joint is the correct terminology for the joining of metal parts in a molten state.