STUDENT SPACE · TOPIC 4

Properties and uses of alloys

Link metal structure and physical properties to a suitable use.

The essentials

Aluminium suits aircraft and overhead cables because of its low density. Cables also need good electrical conductivity.
An alloy mixes a metal with other elements. Different sized atoms disrupt the regular arrangement.
Brass contains copper and zinc. Stainless steel contains iron with elements such as chromium, nickel and carbon.

Try each question before opening its hint or answer. Use paper for calculations and diagrams.

Why is low density important for overhead aluminium cables?

Need a hint for Question 1?

Name a property before stating its benefit. For hardness, compare atom sizes and layer movement.

Check Question 1

It reduces the mass of the cable that the supporting structures must carry.

Give two properties that make copper suitable for electrical wiring.

Need a hint for Question 2?

Match a property to current flow and another to wire-making.

Check Question 2

Good electrical conductivity and ductility, allowing it to be drawn into wires.

Explain why an alloy can be harder than a pure metal.

Need a hint for Question 3?

Compare regular layers with distorted layers.

Check Question 3

Different sized atoms distort the layers, making it harder for them to slide.

Use Lesson 4 in your worksheet for written practice. Your teacher will discuss those answers in class.