Alloy can be defined as a homogeneous mixture or solid solution of two or more metals in the atoms of one replacing or occupying

interstitial positions between the atoms of the other. Alloys usually have different properties from those of the component elements but the physical properties, such as density, reactivity, and electrical and thermal conductivity, of an alloy will not be differ greatly from those of its elements, but engineering properties, such as tensile strength and shear strength may be differ a lot from those of the constituent materials. This is sometimes due to the sizes of the atoms in the alloy, since larger atoms exert a compressive force on neighboring atoms, and smaller atoms exert a tensile force on their neighbors, helping the alloy resist deformation. Alloys are used because they have specific properties or production characteristics that are more attractive than those of the pure, elemental metals. For example, some alloys possess high strength while others have low melting points. Some are especially resistant to corrosion and others have desirable magnetic, thermal, or electrical properties. These characteristics arise from both the internal and the electronic structure of the alloy. An alloy is usually harder than a pure metal and may have a much lower conductivity. Some alloys are made by melting and mixing two or more metals. For, example bronze is an alloy of copper and tin. It is harder than pure copper and used to make tools and weapons. Most alloys do not have a single melting point, but a melting range in which the material is a mixture of solid and liquid phases. However, for most alloys there is a particular proportion of constituents named eutectic mixture which gives the alloy a unique melting point. Pure metal usually has an arrangement of metal that are very closely packed. The size of the atom will be same. Thus it will be very easy to slide off when a little amount of pressure is given. Besides that, pure metals also have very low boiling points. So, it cannot withstand a high temperature. Some pure metals also easily can react with oxygen and forms rust. Alloy is a substance with an addition of foreign substances to improve their quality and appearance. With an addition of foreign substances it can withstand high temperature, pressure and also will be anticorrosive.

Stainless steel cannot rust because it wont react with oxygen. This is because it forms oxide layer that protects the underlying metal. Regular iron forms flaky rust that allows oxygen to get to the rest of the metal. But sometimes stainless steel can rust because there will be something that removes the oxide layer as it forms.