Question

Which one of the following is the most correct statement
A) Brass is an interstitial alloy, while steel is a substitutional alloy
B) Brass is a substitutional alloy, while steel is an interstitial alloy
C) Brass and steel are both substitutional alloys
D) Brass and steel are both interstitial alloys

Answer 1

Hint: The alloy which contains an intestinal atom like a non metal atom forms the interstitial alloy. Brass is an alloy of copper and zinc whereas steel is an alloy of iron with non metal carbon.

Complete Step by Step Answer:
An alloy is a mixture of different metals and non metals. When a nonmetal occupies the intestinal position of any metal then interstitial alloy forms. Steel is an alloy of iron with a small amount of carbon. The carbon atom occupies the interstitial sites of the iron crystal and forms steel. Thus steel is an interstitial alloy.

When a metal occupies the position of the constituent atom of any metal then substitutional alloy is formed. Brass is an alloy of copper and zinc. The copper atom occupies the sites of the zinc crystal and forms brass. Thus brass is a substitutional alloy.
Thus the correct option is B.

Note: Alloy has different properties than the pure metal. Alloys are less tensile, more malleable and more ductile in nature than the pure metal. Alloys are widely used in many purposes and in industries.