Why pure metals are good conductor of electricity rather than alloys?

Question

Answer

Metals

conduct electricity by allowing free electrons to move between the atoms. These electrons are not associated with a single atom or covalent bond. ... So

alloys

tend to offer less electrical conductivity

than pure

metal.

Answer

Metals are an excellent conductor of electricity and heat because the atoms in the metals form a matrix through which outer electrons can move freely. Instead of orbiting their respective atoms, they form a sea of electrons that surround the positive nuclei of the interacting metal ions.

Answer

Introduction:
Pure metals are known for their excellent conductivity of electricity. This is due to their unique atomic structure and the presence of free electrons. However, alloys, which are mixtures of two or more metals, do not exhibit the same level of conductivity as pure metals. This can be attributed to several reasons, which will be explained in detail below.

Atomic Structure:
Pure metals have a regular and orderly arrangement of atoms in a crystal lattice structure. The atoms are closely packed together, allowing for efficient movement of electrons. In contrast, alloys have a more complex atomic structure due to the presence of different types of atoms. This disrupts the regular arrangement of atoms and hinders the flow of electrons.

Presence of Free Electrons:
In pure metals, there are free electrons that are not bound to any specific atom. These electrons are able to move freely within the lattice structure, creating a pathway for the flow of electric current. The presence of free electrons is responsible for the high conductivity of pure metals. However, in alloys, the different types of atoms introduce impurities and defects in the crystal lattice, which disrupt the movement of free electrons.

Scattering of Electrons:
In alloys, the presence of different types of atoms leads to scattering of electrons. When an electron moves through the lattice, it can collide with impurity atoms or defects, causing its path to deviate. This scattering of electrons reduces the overall conductivity of the alloy. In pure metals, on the other hand, there are fewer impurities and defects, resulting in minimal scattering of electrons and higher conductivity.

Alloy Composition:
The composition of an alloy also plays a crucial role in determining its conductivity. Some alloys may contain non-metallic elements or elements with different valence electrons, which can significantly affect the conductivity. Additionally, the concentration and distribution of the alloying elements can impact the movement of electrons and the overall conductivity of the alloy.

Solubility of Atoms:
In alloys, the solubility of atoms can vary. Some atoms may have limited solubility in the lattice structure, leading to the formation of segregated regions or phases. These phases can act as barriers to the flow of electrons, reducing the overall conductivity of the alloy.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, pure metals are better conductors of electricity compared to alloys due to their regular atomic structure, presence of free electrons, minimal scattering of electrons, and absence of impurities and defects. Alloys, on the other hand, have a more complex atomic structure, which hinders the movement of electrons and reduces conductivity. The composition, solubility of atoms, and distribution of alloying elements also play a significant role in determining the conductivity of alloys.

Similar Class 10 Doubts

Why are the coil of electric toaster and electric iron made up of an alloy rather than a pure metals ?

Why are the heating elements of electric toaster and electric irons made of an alloy rather than a pure metal?

Why are coils of electric toasters and electric irons made of an alloy rather than a pure metal?

Name two non metal which is good conductor of electricity?

Name two metals which are better conductors of electricity?

Top Courses for Class 10View all

Science Class 10

Social Studies (SST) Class 10

Mathematics (Maths) Class 10

English Grammar Advanced

English Grammar Basic

Top Courses for Class 10

Top Courses for Class 10

Suggested Free Tests

Related Content

About Class 10

Class 10 Study Material

Class 10 All Subjects

NCERT Textbook Solutions

Other Classes

Important Links

Company