Question detail
Why can an alloy have properties that a pure metal cannot?
Try the question, check the answer, then read the explanation to understand the curriculum point.
At a glance
MCQ
Type
practice
Style
Topic
Using materials
Question
- A. Because alloys contain impurities that weaken the metal.
- B. Because the mixture of different metal atoms can alter strength, hardness and corrosion resistance.
- C. Because alloys are always softer than pure metals.
- D. Because pure metals cannot be melted and re‑solidified.
Answer
The correct option is Because the mixture of different metal atoms can alter strength, hardness and corrosion resistance.. 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 Because the mixture of different metal atoms can alter strength, hardness and corrosion resistance.. Because the mixture of different metal atoms can alter strength, hardness and corrosion resistance. 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.
Related flashcards
Flashcard 1 of 5
Related practice questions
Question 1 of 5
Choose an answer, get feedback, then move sideways through the set.