Alloys and Their Uses Flashcards

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What is an alloy?

An alloy is a mixture of a metal with one or more other elements, often other metals.

Pure metals have layers of atoms in a regular pattern, so the layers can slide over each other easily.

Different sized atoms in an alloy break up the regular layers, so the layers cannot slide past each other as easily, making the metal harder.

Steel is an alloy of iron with carbon (and sometimes other metals). It is used for buildings, bridges and car bodies.

Stainless steel is an alloy of iron with chromium and often nickel. It does not rust easily, so it is used for cutlery, sinks and kitchen equipment.

Bronze is an alloy of copper and tin. It is used for statues, medals and bells.

Brass is an alloy of copper and zinc. It is used for taps, door handles and musical instruments.

Pure gold is very soft and bends easily. Gold alloys are harder and more durable, so they are better for jewellery.

Aluminium alloys are low in mass (light), yet strong and resistant to corrosion, so they are ideal for aeroplane bodies.

Alloys can change a metal’s hardness and strength, and can also improve its resistance to corrosion.