Metals and Their Properties

Elements with 1-3 valence electrons that participate in metallic bonding.

Bonds that hold metallic atoms together in a solid.

Able to be hammered or pressed into shape without breaking.

Able to be drawn into wires.

A material made of two or more metals (or a metal and nonmetal) mixed by fusion.

Alloy formed when solute atoms replace solvent atoms in the metal lattice.

Alloy formed when smaller solute atoms occupy spaces between solvent atoms.

Alloy where the components are not evenly distributed.

Steels primarily used for tools and general machine parts requiring strength, wear resistance, and dimensional stability.

Steels with high chromium content (at least 11%) resistant to corrosion due to a protective oxide layer.

Chromium steels (11.5–18% Cr) strengthened by heat treatment to form martensite.

Chromium steels low in carbon (14–27% Cr), strengthened by cold working, not heat treatable.

Chromium-nickel or chromium-nickel-manganese types containing high Ni and Cr (at least 23%), not heat-treatable, strengthened by cold working.

Ferrous alloys with carbon content above 2%, forming graphite instead of cementite.

Corrosion resistance of stainless steels is due to the formation of a thin, stable chromium oxide or nickel oxide layer to prevent further corrosion.

Graphite formation in cast iron is aided by a silicon content greater than 1% and slow cooling rates.

A compound formed from two or more metals, with a fixed composition and ordered atomic arrangement.

Generally exhibit higher melting points and better structural stability compared to constituent metals, but often more brittle.

Alloys where iron is the primary component.

Steels containing minimal impurities and low carbon content, used for various applications from automobiles to structures.

Steels with added alloying elements like copper, vanadium, nickel, and molybdenum, offering high strength and used for structural applications.

Steels containing moderate carbon content (0.25-0.60%), heat treatable, and used for tracks, gears, and structural components.

Steels with high carbon content (0.60-1.40%), providing wear resistance and the ability to hold sharp edges.

Ferrous alloys are widely used due to the abundance of iron, economical production methods, and versatility in applications.