AP Chemistry / Unit 2: Compound Structure and Properties
2.4 Structure of Metals and Alloys
Notes
Metals have cations in a sea of electrons: they conduct, and are malleable and ductile.
- Substitutional alloys: similar-size atoms replace each other (brass).
- Interstitial alloys: small atoms fill gaps (steel, carbon in iron), making the metal harder.
Practice
Steel (carbon in iron) is an example of a(n):
Small carbon atoms fit in the gaps.
Metals conduct electricity because:
Electron sea.
Interstitial alloys are usually harder than the pure metal because:
Layers can't slip as easily.
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