Pure metals are often converted into more useful alloys. For example, aluminium is converted into an alloy used in aircraft, iron is converted into an alloy used in cutlery and gold alloys are used in jewellery. These processes of alloying change the structures of the metals. Some properties of pure aluminium, iron and gold are shown in Figure.Explain how alloying changes these pure metals to make the alloys more suitable for the given uses – 9046

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1. An alloy is a mixture of metals. Different sized atoms are added when making an alloy. These atoms stop the layers of metal from sliding over each other easily, so the alloy is stronger and harder.
   For example, an aluminum alloy called magnalium is made by adding magnesium. Pure aluminum is too soft for making aircraft because it bends too easily. But magnalium is stronger and still light because magnesium atoms are lighter than aluminum atoms, so the alloy has low density.
   Another example is stainless steel, which is an iron alloy. Pure iron bends easily and rusts, which would ruin cutlery. Stainless steel doesn’t corrode, so it’s better for making cutlery.
   Gold alloys are harder than pure gold, so they last longer and don’t change shape easily. Also, alloying can change the color of gold.

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