A metal is an element that readily yields electrons. It’s typically extracted from the ground in some type of mining process, so the pure metal can be refined from the raw ore. Most metal items contain more than one type of metal.
Properties
Metals generally have a set of properties that makes them highly desirable for constructing a wide variety of items. They are generally harder than other types of elements, and the un-oxidized surface of a metal is usually shiny. Metals are good conductors of heat and electricity.
Alloys
An alloy is a mixture of at least two elements, such that a metal is the major component of the alloy. Almost all metal items are alloys because pure metals are usually too chemically reactive or brittle. The specific amount of each metal in an alloy allows the manufacturer to control the properties of an alloy with considerable precision.
Steel
Steel is a group of metal alloys that consist primarily of iron with less than 2 percent carbon. A higher carbon content in the alloy makes the metal stronger but also more brittle. Stainless steel has greater resistance to rust, and generally contains more than 10 percent chromium, molybdenum and nickel.
Additional Types
Metals other than iron are commonly used in the fabrication of metal items. These include aluminum, copper and zinc. Aluminum is valued for its resistance to rust and high strength-to-weight ratio. Copper is used in applications requiring high electrical conductivity. Zinc is a common alloying agent in metals requiring a high resistance to corrosion.