Eutectic Reaction
An eutectic reaction occurs when two or more components in a mixture solidify simultaneously at a specific composition and temperature, forming a homogeneous solid. This reaction is characterized by a unique melting point that is lower than the melting points of the individual components. The resulting solid has a distinct microstructure, often exhibiting a fine mixture of the different phases.
In metallurgy, eutectic reactions are important for understanding the properties of alloys, such as those involving lead and tin. These reactions help in designing materials with desirable characteristics, such as improved strength or corrosion resistance, by controlling the solidification process.