Answer:
Steel rods, or rebar, are embedded in concrete in housing structures and other types of buildings for several reasons.
One reason is to provide tensile strength. Concrete is strong in compression but weak in tension, meaning it can withstand a lot of weight pushing down on it but not much weight pulling on it. Steel, on the other hand, is strong in both tension and compression. By embedding steel rods in the concrete, the steel can provide the tensile strength that the concrete lacks, allowing the structure to resist forces that try to stretch or pull it apart.
Another reason for using steel rods in concrete is to improve the overall structural integrity of the building. The steel rods can help to hold the concrete together and keep it from cracking under the weight of the building. This can help to prevent the building from collapsing in the event of an earthquake or other natural disaster.
Finally, steel rods can be used in concrete to help control the shrinkage of the concrete as it cures. As the concrete dries, it can shrink slightly, which can cause cracks to form. By embedding steel rods in the concrete, the steel can help to hold the concrete in place and prevent it from shrinking too much, which can help to reduce the risk of cracking.