An alloy is

• A. A pure substance consisting of atoms with covalent bonds.
• B. A mixture of two or more metals.
• C. A noble gas.
• D. High melting point solids that conduct electricity.

Answer: (B)

Alloys are materials formed by combining two or more metals to create a substance with properties different from the metals alone. This mixing often enhances strength, hardness, or durability, which is why alloys like steel (iron with carbon) or bronze (copper with tin) are so useful. They’re not pure substances with covalent bonds, nor are they noble gases, and the concept goes beyond simply describing metals that conduct electricity. Describing an alloy as a mixture of two or more metals best captures what it is and why it’s made.