Textbook Question
Indicate whether each statement is true or false: (c) Nonmetallic elements are never found in alloys.
Ch.12 - Solids and Modern Materials
Chapter 12, Problem 46
Indicate whether each statement is true or false: (a) Intermetallic compounds have a fixed composition. (b) Copper is the majority component in both brass and bronze. (c) In stainless steel, the chromium atoms occupy interstitial positions.
Verified step by step guidance1
Step 1: Understand the nature of intermetallic compounds. Intermetallic compounds are typically composed of two or more metals with a specific stoichiometric ratio, often forming a distinct crystal structure. This suggests that they have a fixed composition.
Step 2: Analyze the composition of brass and bronze. Brass is an alloy primarily composed of copper and zinc, while bronze is primarily composed of copper and tin. Determine if copper is the majority component in both alloys.
Step 3: Examine the structure of stainless steel. Stainless steel is an alloy known for its corrosion resistance, primarily due to the presence of chromium. Consider whether chromium atoms are likely to occupy interstitial positions or substitute for iron atoms in the alloy's crystal lattice.
Step 4: Evaluate the statement about intermetallic compounds based on your understanding from Step 1. Decide if the statement about their fixed composition is true or false.
Step 5: Assess the statements about brass, bronze, and stainless steel based on your analysis in Steps 2 and 3. Determine the truthfulness of each statement regarding the composition and structure of these alloys.
Key Concepts
Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Intermetallic Compounds
Intermetallic compounds are materials formed from two or more metals that have a specific stoichiometric ratio, resulting in a fixed composition. Unlike alloys, which can have variable compositions, intermetallics exhibit distinct properties and structures due to their ordered arrangement of atoms. This fixed composition is crucial for their unique physical and chemical characteristics.
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Brass and Bronze Composition
Brass and bronze are both alloys primarily composed of copper, but they differ in their secondary components. Brass is an alloy of copper and zinc, while bronze typically consists of copper and tin. Understanding the composition of these alloys is essential for recognizing their properties and applications, as the majority component influences their mechanical and corrosion resistance.
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Stainless Steel Structure
Stainless steel is an alloy primarily made of iron, with chromium added to enhance corrosion resistance. In stainless steel, chromium atoms do not occupy interstitial positions; instead, they are part of the crystal lattice structure. This arrangement contributes to the alloy's strength and resistance to oxidation, making it suitable for various applications in harsh environments.
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Related Practice
Textbook Question
Which element or elements are alloyed with gold to make the following types of 'colored gold' used in the jewelry industry? For each type, also indicate what type of alloy is formed: (c) green gold.
Textbook Question
An increase in temperature causes most metals to undergo thermal expansion, which means the volume of the metal increases upon heating. How does thermal expansion affect the unit cell length? What is the effect of an increase in temperature on the density of a metal?
Textbook Question
State whether each sentence is true or false: (a) Metals have high electrical conductivities because the electrons in the metal are delocalized. (c) Metals have large thermal conductivities because they expand when heated. (d) Metals have small thermal conductivities because the delocalized electrons cannot easily transfer the kinetic energy imparted to the metal from heat.