Why are alloys often used in construction and manufacturing?

Alloys are often preferred in construction and manufacturing because they possess enhanced physical properties compared to pure metals. When different metals are combined to form an alloy, the resulting material typically exhibits superior characteristics such as increased strength, improved corrosion resistance, better ductility, and enhanced fatigue resistance. These properties allow alloys to perform better under various environmental and operational conditions than their constituent pure metals.

For instance, steel, which is an alloy of iron and carbon, is much stronger and more durable than pure iron, making it ideal for use in structural applications.

While other options suggest factors that could be relevant—such as weight, ease of shaping, or cost—these do not address the primary reason alloys are favored. In many cases, alloys might even be heavier than pure metals, can sometimes be harder to shape, and their cost can vary depending on the composition. Therefore, the enhanced physical properties of alloys directly contribute to their widespread use in construction and manufacturing.