Solid Solution (Noun)
Meaning
A homogeneous solid that can exist over a range of component chemicals; a constituent of alloys that is formed when atoms of an element are incorporated into the crystals of a metal.
Classification
Nouns denoting substances.
Examples
- The crystal lattice of a solid solution can be thought of as a rigid framework of one metal, with atoms of another metal occupying certain positions within it.
- The process of creating a solid solution involves heating the constituent elements to a high temperature, then slowly cooling them to form a uniform crystal structure.
- A well-known example of a solid solution is brass, which is an alloy of copper and zinc that forms a homogeneous solid over a range of compositions.
- In the context of metallurgy, a solid solution is often used to strengthen a metal by incorporating atoms of a secondary element into its crystal lattice.
- The concept of a solid solution is important in the field of materials science, as it allows researchers to design new alloys with unique properties by manipulating the composition of the solid solution.