Functions of coating in SMAW ( ) A. to stabilize the arc B. to generate gases to act as a shield against the surrounding atmosphere—the gases produced are carbon dioxide and water vapor (and carbon monoxide and hydrogen in small amounts) C. to act as a flux D. to add alloying element to the weld zone to enhance the properties of the joint—among them, to prevent the weld from becoming brittle. E. to control the rate at which the electrode melts