Describe the process of the solidification of metals distinguishing between homogeneous
and heterogeneous nucleation.
Describe the two energies involved in the solidification process of a pure metal, and write
the equation for the total free-energy change associated with the transformation of the liquid
state to solid nucleus.
Distinguish between equiaxed and columnar grains and the advantage of the former over the
latter.
Distinguish between single crystal and polycrystalline materials and explain why single crystal and polycrystalline forms of the material have different mechanical properties.
Describe various forms of metallic solid solutions and explain the differences between solid solution and mixture alloys.
Classify various types of crystalline imperfections and explain the role of defects on the mechanical and electrical properties of crystalline materials.
Determine the ASTM grain size number and average grain size diameter and describe the
importance of grain size and grain boundary density on the behavior of crystalline materials.
Learn how and why optical microscopy, SEM, TEM, HRTEM, AFM, and STM techniques are
used to understand more about the internal and surface structures of materials at various
magnifications.
Explain, in general terms, why alloys are preferred materials over pure metals for structural applications.
