Question

Define an alloy and an amalgam. State the main constituents of the following alloys: Stainless steel, bronze. In which property is each of them different from its main constituent?

Answer 1

Definition of alloy and amalgam:

• Alloy is defined as the homogenous mixtures of two or more metals or a mixture of metal and non-metal.
• Alloys are prepared by taking the desired elements in proper proportion and melting them.
• Whereas, amalgam is an alloy of a metal with mercury. The common constituents of amalgam are mercury, tin, silver, copper, and other trace metals.

The main constituents of the following alloys are:

1. Stainless steel - Iron, Nickel, and Chromium.
2. Bronze - Copper and Tin.

The difference between the properties of stainless steel, bronze, and its main constituent:

1. The corrosive properties of Stainless steel and iron are different. Stainless steel does not rust while iron rusts easily.
2. The malleable properties of Bronze and copper are different. Bronze is more malleable than copper.