Question

Why are coils of electric toasters and electric irons made of an alloy rather than a pure metal?

Answer 1

Alloys

• Alloys are referred to as a blend of metals or metals combined with other elements.
• Properties of metals can be enhanced by the addition of certain metals or elements.
• Example: Zinc amalgam is an alloy of zinc $\left(90\%\right)$ and mercury $\left(10\%\right)$.

Coils of electric toasters and electric irons made of an alloy

• Alloys are used to make coils of electric toasters and electric irons made of an alloy instead of pure metal.
• Alloys have high resistance, allowing them to conduct less energy.
• Alloys do not easily melt at high temperatures.
• Alloys are more durable than pure metals.
• The tensile strength of alloys is greater than that of its constituents.
• Pure metal's color may be changed by combining it with another metal or nonmetal and making an alloy.
• Alloys are more corrosion-resistant than pure metals.