alloys

What is an alloy

An alloy is a mixture of two or more metals or metal with a non-metal such as carbon

What enhanced properties do alloys have

They can be stronger and harder

They are resistance to corrosion or extreme temperatures

Why are alloys harder

Alloys contain atoms of different sizes

This distorts the regular arrangements of atoms

So it is more difficult for the layers of atoms to slide over each other,

Bronze

Alloy made of copper and tin

Harder than copper

Used to make ornaments and medals

Aluminium Alloys

Aluminium is mixed with copper, manganese and silicon for aircraft body production as aluminium alloys tend to be stronger and lighter than pure aluminium

As well as being lighter and stronger, it is also more corrosion resistant than aluminium

High carbon steel

Iron and carbon

Used for cutting tools (very hard, but also brittle)

Low carbon steel

Iron and carbon

Building frames, cookware, car bodies (Softer and more easily shaped)

Stainless steel

Iron, chromium and nickel

Cookware, cutlery, car bodies

Brass

Copper and zinc

Plumbing and carpentry

Magnalium

Aluminium and magnesium

Aircraft construction and production of fireworks (more stable than pure magnesium but still burns brightly)