What is an amalgam? How does an amalgam different from an alloy?

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An amalgam is a homogeneous mixture of a metal in mercury whereas an alloy is a homogeneous mixture of two or more molten metals (or a non-metal) generally made for improving one or more properties of metals. 

Example: When sodium dissolves in mercury, it forms sodium amalgam. When zinc and copper are combined, alloy named brass is formed.

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