An alloy is a mixture of two or more chemical elements, one of which is a metal. Most alloys are made by melting the metals, mixing them while they are liquid to form a solution, then leaving them to cool and turn solid again. Brass, steel and bronze are some alloys that we use a lot in our daily life.
The properties of alloys will be quite differernt from the properties of the metals used in the mixture. Generally, alloys are harder and stronger than the metals they are made of. Alloying also makes it possible to create materials with just the right combination of properties that we need for a particular purpose. For example, by combining aluminium with copper, magnesium and other metals, you get an alloy that is light yet strong enough to be used in building aeroplanes. Similarly, steel is a very useful alloy that is used in making everything from skyscapers to saucepans!
The properties of alloys will be quite differernt from the properties of the metals used in the mixture. Generally, alloys are harder and stronger than the metals they are made of. Alloying also makes it possible to create materials with just the right combination of properties that we need for a particular purpose. For example, by combining aluminium with copper, magnesium and other metals, you get an alloy that is light yet strong enough to be used in building aeroplanes. Similarly, steel is a very useful alloy that is used in making everything from skyscapers to saucepans!
