An amalgam is a mixture of mercury with other metals. It’s often used in dental fillings.
Elements in Solder
Solder is a metal used to join other metals together. The main types are:
- Lead-based solder: Made of tin and lead, usually 60% tin and 40% lead.
- Lead-free solder: Made mostly of tin, with small amounts of other metals like copper or silver.
Lead-free solder is now more common because it’s safer for health and the environment.
Lead-free solder 🆚 Lead-based solder
| Feature | Lead-Free Solder | Lead-Based Solder |
| Primary Composition | Mostly tin (Sn) with copper (Cu), silver (Ag), or other metals | Tin (Sn) and lead (Pb) usually in a 60/40 ratio |
| Melting Point | Higher (around 217°C to 240°C) | Lower (around 183°C to 190°C) |
| Health Impact | Safer, no lead content | Contains lead, which is toxic |
| Environmental Impact | More environmentally friendly | Harmful to the environment due to lead |
| Durability | Generally more brittle, harder | More malleable and softer |
| Application | Used in modern electronics, especially where health regulations are strict | Common in older electronics and plumbing |
| Cost | Typically more expensive | Usually cheaper |
