Alloys such as bronze are more malleable than pure copper because the addition of tin atoms of a different size creates planes of weakness, allowing the layers of atoms to slide past each other more freely.

Iron will rust if it is submerged in boiled distilled water in a sealed tube, as the water molecules themselves provide the necessary oxygen atoms to oxidise the iron to hydrated iron(III) oxide.

In sacrificial protection, blocks of a more reactive metal such as zinc are attached to an iron hull; the zinc atoms prevent the iron from rusting by losing electrons more readily than iron.

Transition metals typically have lower melting points and react more vigorously with cold water than Group 1 alkali metals, which is why transition metals must be stored under oil.