IGCSE›Oxford AQA IGCSE Chemistry›Mind mapsAlloysOxford AQA IGCSE Chemistry: Mind mapStudy pack PDFAlso for this subtopic:Revision notesFlashcardsSubtopic testCover factsWhat is one?A mixture of at least two elementsAt least one is a metalNot a compoundNot bonded in fixed ratiosPure metalsAtoms in uniform layersLayers slide easilyOften too soft or weakAlloysmetal mixturesFeCWhy alloy?Different-sized atoms distort the layersLayers harder to slideUsually harder and strongerOften more corrosion resistantSteelsIron mixed with carbonSometimes other metals tooComposition varies the propertiesUses: construction, tools, cutleryExam tipsAn alloy is a mixture, not a compoundExplain with distorted layers that cannot slide