Question

Why do transition elements form alloys?

Answer 1

An alloy is a mixture of two (or more metals) or a metal and a nonmetal. Usually an alloy is formed to provide corrosion resistance or to increase mechanical strength.

Complete answer:
We can consider an alloy as a solid solution. When two metals form alloys, you expect that these metals should have similar atomic radii. Also, you expect that one metal can be easily replaced from its crystal lattice by another metal. You also expect that in the molten state, two metals should be miscible with each other, so that when you cool the molten mixture of metals, an alloy will be formed.

All the above characteristics are possessed by the transition metals. Hence, the transition metals readily form alloys.

Transition metals have very similar atomic radii and atomic sizes. They have almost similar atomic volumes. Due to similar atomic size, one transition metal can easily replace the other transition metal from its crystal lattice. When you mix to transition metals and melt them by heating together, two metals will be miscible in the molten state. When you cool the molten mixture of transition metals, you will get an alloy-a solid solution.

Note: Two most common types of alloys are bearing alloys and corrosion resistant alloys. Bearing alloys can accommodate high pressure due to sliding contact with other objects such as rotating shafts. We can use noble metals for the corrosion resistant alloys. These alloys prevent corrosion.