(1) Thermal and electrical conductivities :
These properties of a solid solution are less than those of the pure metals.
- According to mathieessens's rule when small quantities of an alloying element are added in solid solution to a metal the increase in resistance does not depend upon the temperature.
For the mixture of insoluble phase, thermal and electrical resistance follow the law of mixture.
(2) Density:
Density is increased by heavier metal in solid solution and is decreased by a lighter metal.
In case of interstitial solid solution, there is little effect on density by the added element.
(3) Specific heat and co-efficient of thermal expansion:
These properties of alloys are governed by the law of mixture.
(4) Melting point:
The greater the difference in valencies between the metal of alloys the wider is the melting range.
(5) Boiling point:
The boiling point (like melting point) is also converted into a range by the addition of alloying element.