Alloys

An alloy is made by mixing two or more metals together. Sometimes a metal is mixed with a non-metal too. The new mix is often stronger or more useful than the metals alone. People have been making alloys for thousands of years. Steel, bronze, and brass are all alloys.

Why Mix Metals

Pure metals can be too soft or rust easily. Mixing them with other metals can fix these problems. Iron is strong, but adding carbon to it makes steel, which is even stronger. Gold jewelry is often mixed with silver or copper to make it harder. Alloys can also be made to resist rust.

Common Alloys

Steel is the most used alloy in the world. It is used in cars, ships, and tall buildings. Bronze is made from copper and tin, and it was used long ago for tools and weapons. Brass is a mix of copper and zinc, and it is used for musical instruments. Stainless steel has chromium added to stop it from rusting.

Fun Facts

• The Bronze Age is named after an alloy of copper and tin.
• Coins are usually made of alloys, not pure metals.
• The Statue of Liberty is covered with copper, but her frame is made of iron.

Did You Know?

Adding just a small amount of carbon to iron can turn soft iron into super-strong steel.