Alloys
Alloys are mixtures of two or more different metals or of a metal and non-metal.
Alloys are formed in order to improve the properties of a metal. This is because the various metals or non-metals that will be mixed have different properties and all those properties will benefit when they are mixed together to form alloys.
Examples of alloys, their composition and their use
| ALLOY | COMPOSITION | USES |
|---|---|---|
| Bronze | Copper and Tin | Used for making statues & medals, coins and bells. |
| Brass | Copper and Zinc | Used for making statues & medals, jewels, musical instruments. |
| Steel | Carbon and Iron | Used for making car and machine parts. |
| Duralumin | Aluminium and Copper | Used for constructing aircraft. |
| Solder | Lead and Tin | Used for joining electrical components. |
Importance of Alloys
They have higher tensile strength.
They are cheaper and have more uses.
They are less likely to rust e.g. Steel.