Alloy
Definition
An alloy is a mixture of two or more elements, where at least one element is a metal. This combination results in a substance with properties that are different from the original elements.
Analogy
Think of an alloy like making a smoothie. You start with individual ingredients (like fruits and yogurt), but when you blend them together, they form something new and unique - a smoothie! Similarly, when metals are combined with other elements under certain conditions, they create alloys with distinct properties.
Related terms
Bronze: A type of alloy made primarily from copper and tin. It's known for its hardness and durability.
Pewter: An alloy composed mostly of tin mixed with small amounts of antimony and copper. It's often used to make decorative items due to its malleability.
Solder: A fusible metal alloy used to create a permanent bond between metal pieces. It typically has a low melting point.
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