solid solution

USAGE SUMMARY

"solid solution" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is typically used to describe a mixture of two or more substances that are in a solid state. For example, "The mixture of sugar and water forms a solid solution when cooled in the refrigerator."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

Encyclopedias

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

51 human-written examples

This phenomenon is termed ionic substitution, or solid solution.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Substitutional solid solution is the most common variety.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The least common type of solid solution is omission solid solution, in which a crystal contains one or more atomic sites that are not completely filled.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The alkali (Or-Ab) series exhibits complete solid solution at high temperatures but only incomplete solid solution at low temperatures; substitution of potassium for sodium is involved.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Only a mineral that displays no solid solution may therefore be considered a phase.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The aragonite group displays more limited solid solution than the calcite group.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

9 human-written examples

The An-Or system has only limited solid-solution tendencies.

Encyclopedia Britannica

One way is solid-solution hardening, which occurs in all steels.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Typically the name olivine is given to members of the forsterite-fayalite solid-solution series.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The plagioclase feldspars include members of the albite-anorthite solid-solution series.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Most of the common minerals found in igneous rocks are solid-solution phases.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a "solid solution", specify the components involved and the conditions under which it forms. For example, "The iron-carbon solid solution forms during the steelmaking process."

Common error

Avoid using the term "solid solution" for mixtures that are not homogeneous at the atomic or molecular level. The components must be evenly dispersed throughout the solid.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "solid solution" primarily functions as a noun, specifically a compound noun. It names a specific type of homogenous crystalline solid, as supported by Ludwig and its examples across scientific and encyclopedic contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

71%

Encyclopedias

15%

News & Media

2%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

1%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The term "solid solution" refers to a homogenous crystalline solid composed of two or more elements or compounds that are atomically dispersed. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is grammatically correct and widely used, particularly in scientific and technical contexts. Its prevalence in domains like material science, chemistry, and geology underlines its relevance. While alternative phrases exist, such as "homogeneous mixture" or "mixed crystal", the specific term "solid solution" is most apt when referring to the structural arrangement at an atomic or molecular scale.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

mixed crystal

Highlights the crystal structure resulting from the combination of multiple components.

homogeneous mixture

Replaces "solid solution" with a more general term for a uniform mixture, regardless of state.

crystalline mixture

Focuses on the crystalline structure of the mixture, highlighting that aspect.

substituted structure

Emphasizes the concept of one element or compound replacing another in a crystalline structure.

alloy composition

Emphasizes the resulting composition when different metals are combined.

interstitial compound

Highlights a compound where atoms fill the spaces between larger atoms in a lattice.

composite material

Describes the resulting material as a combination of different substances.

atomic dispersion

Focuses on the dispersal of atoms within the solution.

multi-component system

Focuses on the system's composition involving various substances.

elemental blend

Highlights a blend of elements forming a new substance.

FAQs

How does temperature affect the formation of a "solid solution"?

Temperature often influences the solubility of components in a "solid solution". Higher temperatures may allow for greater mixing, while lower temperatures can lead to phase separation or incomplete mixing.

What are some common examples of "solid solutions" in everyday life?

Examples include alloys like brass (copper and zinc), steel (iron and carbon), and certain types of gemstones where trace elements are incorporated into the crystal lattice.

What's the difference between a "solid solution" and a simple mixture?

In a "solid solution", the components are mixed at the atomic or molecular level, resulting in a homogeneous structure. In a simple mixture, the components retain their individual identities and are not uniformly dispersed.

How does a "solid solution" differ from an "intermetallic compound"?

A "solid solution" involves random substitution or insertion of atoms, while an "intermetallic compound" has a fixed stoichiometry and ordered crystal structure.