An alloy is a homogeneous mixture composed of two or more metals, or a metal and a non-metal, where the elements are combined in specific proportions to alter the properties of the primary metal.

Alloying iron with nickel and chromium results in the formation of stainless steel, a material known for its hardness and resistance to rust.

Adding a small amount of carbon (about 0.05%) to iron transforms it into a harder and stronger material, making it more suitable for various industrial applications.

Iron is not used in its pure state because it is soft and prone to stretching, especially when hot.

Galvanisation is considered effective in preventing rusting because zinc is more reactive than iron, so it acts as a sacrificial coating, corroding instead of the iron or steel substrate. Additionally, the zinc coating provides a physical barrier between the iron ...