How does a substitutional alloy differ from an interstitial alloy

The atomic arrangement and atomic size are the differences between substitutional alloy and interstitial alloy.

Explanation:

An alloy is gotten when metal is combined with another element to produce superior characteristics when compared to the parent metal. This combination can be with a metal or non-metal.

A substitutional alloy is formed when the element that is used for the combination exchanges its atom with that of parent metal. These atoms are of the same which makes it easy for the combination, bronze is an example of substitutional alloy.

The atom of the element that combines with the parent metal is relatively small for an interstitial alloy. The atom of these metal move into a confined space that is called the interstice and there is no form of atomic exchange. Steel is a good example of an interstitial alloy.

The atoms in the interstitial alloys have to enter the interstice, which makes them smaller when compared to substitutional alloy. The substitutional alloys take the form of the parent metal while interstitial alloys form a lattice atomic structure.