Question detail

Which statement best describes the difference between a pure metal and an alloy in terms of composition?

Try the question, check the answer, then read the explanation to understand the curriculum point.

Show answer Topic hub Objective page

At a glance

MCQ

Type

practice

Style

Topic

Using materials

Question

A. A pure metal contains only one type of atom, whereas an alloy contains atoms of two or more different metals.
B. A pure metal has a fixed melting point, while an alloy has a range of melting points.
C. A pure metal is always harder than an alloy, which is always softer.
D. A pure metal is produced by alloying, whereas an alloy is produced by refining.

Answer

The correct option is A pure metal contains only one type of atom, whereas an alloy contains atoms of two or more different metals.. This answer is correct because it matches the approved learning objective to distinguish a pure metal from an alloy in terms of composition in the subtopic Alloys as useful materials.

Explanation

The correct option is A pure metal contains only one type of atom, whereas an alloy contains atoms of two or more different metals.. A pure metal contains only one type of atom, whereas an alloy contains atoms of two or more different metals. is correct because it directly supports the approved learning objective to distinguish a pure metal from an alloy in terms of composition. This belongs to the subtopic Alloys as useful materials within Using materials, so the explanation must stay tied to that curriculum context. The other options are incorrect because they either do not answer this learning objective, use a vague statement, or move away from Alloys as useful materials.

Common mistake

Confusing Pure Metals and Alloys

Students often think that a pure metal and an alloy have the same composition, not recognizing that alloys are mixtures of different elements.

To fix this, remember that a pure metal consists of only one type of atom, while an alloy contains two or more different elements combined together.

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