Explain what an alloy is and why alloys are useful.

Alloys are metallic compounds composed of one metal and one or more metal or non-metal element.

Alloys are useful because they allow us to maximize the desired properties within certain constraints in a way that is appropriate for the intended use.

Alloy is a solid substance made of two or more metallic elements or different non-metallic elements with metals. It means that in all alloys you can find at least one metal.

Explanation:

On one hand, all pure metals have their own physical and chemical properties and for that reason are very useful, but on the other hand, some properties are not found in pure metals. In this case, to get materials with specific features, the chemical industry makes combinations of different materials involve metals, for instance:

Bronze which a combination between Copper and Tin

Steel which is a combination of Iron and Carbon

Brass which is a combination of copper and zinc