Secrets of the Samurai Sword

Student Handout

Mixed-Up Metals

Combining two or more metals together forms an alloy. It would likely be impossible to find a single room in your house that didn't contain a metal alloy. Alloys often have different properties than either one of the elemental metals used to produce them. In this activity, you will explore the nature of different types of alloys.

Procedure

1. Your team will be assigned or will choose one of the following alloys:

   • brass
   • bronze
   • cast iron
   • carbon steel
   • pewter
   • solder
   • sterling silver
   • stainless steel
   • wrought iron

2. Your report will need to address the following:

   • What combination of elements make up the alloy?

   • Where and when was the earliest evidence of the use of the alloy?

   • What properties of the alloy make it useful in homes or in industry?

   • Any other interesting facts about the alloy.

3. Produce a visual display of your research. Bring in a sample of your alloy if at all possible to show to the class during your presentation.

4. When you present your information, use self-stick notes to locate on the class world map and time line the region and time in which the first evidence of your alloy was discovered.