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Metal Alloys

Most metals that we use in everyday life are alloys. Here are some examples of common alloys:

Bronze

Bronze

  • Bronze is an alloy of copper and tin.
  • Adding tin increases the hardness of the material.
  • Uses include making coins, electrical hardware and statues.
Brass

Brass

  • Brass is an alloy of copper and zinc.
  • Adding zinc makes the material more malleable.
  • Uses include door fittings and water taps.
Gold

Gold

  • Pure gold is soft and so jewellers will often add metals such as silver, copper and zinc to produce a more resilient substance.
  • Carats provide a measure for the purity of a gold alloy:
    • 24 carats = 100% gold.
    • Therefore, 18 carats = 75% gold.
Steel

Steel

  • Steels are alloys of iron that contain carbon as well as other metals.
    • High carbon steels are strong but brittle. Uses include making cutting tools and blades.
    • Low carbon steels are soft but malleable. Uses include making car bodies.
    • Stainless steels (steels containing chromium and nickel) are strong and resistant to corrosion. Uses include cooking utensils and cutlery.
Aluminium

Aluminium

  • A key feature of aluminium alloys is their low density, which makes them suitable for use in manufacturing aircrafts.
  • Other uses include armour plating for military vehicles.
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