Determine which of these elements would you expect to form the following with copper: (a) A substitutional solid solution having complete solubility (b) A substitutional solid solution of incomplete solubility (c) An interstitial solid solution

a) Ni, Pd, Pt

b) Ag, Al, Co, Cr, Fe, Zn

c) C, H, O

Explanation:

Substitutional solid solutions occur when a foreign atom replaces a host metal atom in its lattice. Metals having complete solubility have similar sizes as the host metal atom. Incomplete solubility results when the the substituents do not have almost the same size and charge as the host metal. Elements having smaller sizes than the host form interstitial solid solutions. The essence of adding a metal to another metal is usually to improve strength, electrical conductivity or some other mechanical properties.