What is an alloy?

An alloy is defined as a mixture that consists of two or more elements, where at least one of those elements is a metal. This definition is key in understanding what alloys are, as these mixtures often exhibit different properties than the individual metals alone. For example, the combination of metals can enhance strength, corrosion resistance, and ductility, making alloys suitable for a wide range of applications in construction, manufacturing, and other fields.

In contrast, a pure metal element consists solely of one type of metal atom, not a combination, which differentiates it from an alloy. A chemical compound refers to a substance formed when two or more elements chemically bond in a fixed ratio, while a solution of salts in water refers to a homogeneous mixture created when ionic compounds dissolve in a solvent, typically water. These definitions underscore why the correct identification of an alloy is crucial in materials science and engineering.