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(November 2007)| A solid solution is a solid-state solution of
one or more solutes in a solvent. Such a mixture is considered a
solution rather than a compound when the crystal structure of
the solvent remains unchanged by addition of the solutes, and
when the mixture remains in a single homogeneous phase. This
often happens when the two elements (generally metals) involved
are close together on the periodic table; conversely, a chemical
compound is generally a result of the non-proximity of the two
metals involved on the periodic table. The solute may
incorporate into the solvent crystal lattice substitutionally,
by replacing a solvent particle in the lattice, or
interstitially, by fitting into the space between solvent
particles. Both of these types of solid solution affect the
properties of the material by distorting the crystal lattice and
disrupting the physical and electrical homogeneity of the
solvent material. Some mixtures will readily form