Alloys

Question 1

Define alloy

Answer 1

Mixture of a metal with other elements (not compounds)

Question 2

What are the advantages of alloys over pure metals?

Answer 2

More strength, hardness or resistance to corrosion or extreme temperatures
More useful than metals

Question 3

What are the uses of alloys?

Answer 3

Brass - copper and zinc - jewellery, musical instruments, electrical connections - corrosion resistant and has conductive properties

Stainless steel - iron and other metals - cutlery - hardness and resistance to rust

Aluminium alloy - Aluminium, silicon, manganese - aircraft bodies - alloy is stronger but lower density

Question 4

Describe the structure and properties of alloys.

Answer 4

Alloys contain atoms of different sizes, which distorts the normally regular arrangements of atoms in metals. Makes it more difficult for the layers to slide over each other.