In steel, the primary component is iron, which serves as the solvent. The carbon acts as the solute. In this case, an alloy is formed when carbon is added to iron, leading to changes in the properties of the material.
To explain further, a solvent is the substance in which the solute is dissolved. In the case of steel, iron is the base metal that provides the structural framework, while carbon, when added in quantities of up to 1.5%, enhances certain properties such as hardness and strength.
When we mix the two, the carbon atoms occupy interstitial spaces within the iron crystal structure, modifying its characteristics without significantly altering its overall metallic nature. This interaction between iron and carbon is what gives steel its distinguished qualities, making it a widely used material in construction and manufacturing.