Question

copper atoms and zinc atoms have the same atomic radius, 135 picometers. based on this information, which of the following diagrams best represents an alloy containing only copper and zinc atoms?

Explanation:

Step1: Recall alloy structure concept

Since copper and zinc atoms have the same atomic radius, in an alloy of only copper and zinc, the atoms will substitute for each other in a random - like manner in the crystal lattice.

Step2: Analyze each option

Option A shows atoms of different sizes, which is incorrect as copper and zinc have the same atomic radius. Option C shows a structure with charged species arranged in an ionic - like pattern, which is not the case for a copper - zinc alloy. Option B shows two types of atoms (presumably copper and zinc) of the same size randomly distributed in the lattice, which is consistent with a substitutional alloy of copper and zinc.

Answer:

B. The diagram with two types of circles of the same size randomly distributed.