Elements are the building blocks of all matter. An element is a pure substance consisting of one type of atom distinguished by its atomic number. These elements are categorized as metals, non-metals and inert.
An alloy is a mixture composed of two or more elements. Alloys usually have different properties from those of the component elements. A metal is combined with one or more metals or non-metals to form an alloy with enhanced properties. The physical properties, such as density, reactivity, conductivity, of an alloy may not differ greatly from those of its elements, but properties such as tensile strength and shear strength may be substantially different from those of the constituent elements. Some alloys are made by melting and mixing two or more metals. Alloys have a melting range unlike metals which have sharp melting point. In this range the material is a mixture of solid and liquid forms.
Metal is the main constituent in most of the alloys. The primary metal is called the base or solvent. The secondary constituents are called solutes. If the alloy is made of only two types of elements then it is called binary alloy. If there are three elements in an alloy then it is called ternary alloy. An alloy made with four constituent is called quaternary alloy, the one with five elements is called quinary alloy.
Bronze is an alloy of copper and tin. It is harder than pure copper and used to make weapons, tools, ornaments, statues and bearings.
Copper + Tin = Bronze
Brass is an alloy of copper and zinc. For its bright gold-like appearance it is used for decoration and making decorative pieces. It is also used in making bearings, locks, gears, valves, doorknobs. It is used for plumbing and electrical applications.
Copper + Zinc = Brass
Steel is an alloy of iron and carbon content between 0.2% and 2.1% by weight. Properties of the steel depend on the amount of its constituent elements. Steel with high carbon content is harder and stronger than iron, but less ductile. Addition of chromium or nickel to steel protects it from rust.
Iron + Carbon = Steel
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