Metals are divided into pure and alloy metals.

Pure ones only contain one type of metal.

Examples of pure metals are: 

• aluminium

• silver

• copper

• gold

• iron

• zinc

Alloy metals are created by mixing pure metals together or with other materials. 

Examples of alloy metals are: 

• brass – an alloy of copper and zinc

• steel – an alloy of iron and carbon (from coal)

• bronze – an alloy of copper and tin.

Metals are non-renewable. 

The mining of metal can cause pollution to local wildlife, harm plants, and people. Heavy metals can become strongly toxic by mixing with water, soil, and air, and humans and other living organisms can be exposed to them through the food chain.

Chemicals or heating are used during the process of making metals resulting in the production of carbon dioxide. This contributes to climate change.

It takes less energy to recycle metal than make new metal. Moreover, when recycled metals do not lose their properties.