Final answer:
Solid solutions are formed when solute atoms are added to a material and a new structure forms. They can be vacancy or interstitial solid solutions. An example is a copper-nickel alloy, and carbon forms an interstitial solid solution with iron.
Step-by-step explanation:
Solid solutions are the result when solute atoms are added to a material and a new structure forms. They can be of two types: vacancy solid solutions, where some of the solvent atoms are missing and replaced by the solute atoms, and interstitial solid solutions, where the solute atoms occupy the spaces between the solvent atoms. An example of a solid solution is a copper-nickel alloy, where the two metals form a homogeneous mixture. Carbon forms an interstitial solid solution with iron because carbon atoms are much smaller than iron atoms and can fit into the gaps in the crystal lattice.