ABSTRACT
This chapter illustrates some of the more important features of metals and alloys-their structures, properties, processing, and performance issues-by following a case history concept based on chronology of the ages of metals. It emphasizes and a few exemplary copper alloys and then illustrate similar metallurgical and materials features using steel and other examples. The chapter examines some fundamental issues which have illustrated some equally simple mechanisms to explain physical and mechanical properties of metals like copper. The three main types of materials-metals and alloys, plastics (polymers), and ceramics are discussed briefly. Moreover, the introduction to materials science and engineering has included variations of fundamental issues which were thought to be more important in an industrial or manufacturing context than in a broader materials context.
