Question

Transition metals form alloys with other transition metals. Explain why?

Hint:

Alloy formation is favored when metals have similar atomic size and crystal structure, leading to minimal lattice distortion.

Answer 1

Step 1: Transition metals have comparable atomic radii, allowing atoms of one metal to easily replace or fit into the lattice of another metal.
Step 2: They generally possess similar crystal structures (such as body-centered cubic or face-centered cubic).
Step 3: Transition metals exhibit strong metallic bonding due to the presence of delocalized \(d\)-electrons, which is not significantly disturbed on mixing.
Step 4: These similarities enable the formation of substitutional alloys with enhanced mechanical properties.