What is a solid mixture of two or more metals called?

An alloy is a solid mixture formed by combining two or more metals, which results in properties that are often superior to those of the individual metals. The process of creating an alloy allows for the manipulation of characteristics such as strength, ductility, and resistance to corrosion, which are essential in various applications, from construction materials to aerospace engineering.

For instance, steel is an alloy primarily made of iron and carbon, which enhances its strength and durability compared to pure iron. This versatility is a defining feature of alloys, making them integral to many industrial processes.

The other terms listed do not accurately describe the specific mixture of metals. A compound refers to a substance formed when two or more elements chemically combine, which is distinct from the physical blending of metals in an alloy. A blend typically implies a mixture of different materials, but it does not specifically pertain to metals or have the same reactive or structural properties. A composite usually refers to a material made from two or more constituent materials with significantly different physical or chemical properties, and this term is generally used more broadly in the context of materials science rather than being specific to metals.