Alloys are mixtures of metals with which of the following?

Alloys are indeed defined as mixtures of metals and non-metals. This definition encompasses a wide range of combinations where one or more base metals are mixed with other elements to create a material that exhibits superior properties, such as strength, ductility, and resistance to corrosion compared to its individual components.

For example, steel is an alloy primarily made from iron and carbon (a non-metal), which enhances its overall strength and hardness. Similarly, bronze is an alloy of copper (a metal) and tin (also a metal), while some specialty alloys may include non-metals, such as sulfur or phosphorus, to modify specific characteristics.

This inclusive definition of both metals and non-metals is what makes option C the correct choice, as it captures the broad spectrum of possibilities in alloy composition. In contrast, the other options incorrectly limit the components of alloys, either to only metals, only non-metals, or only rare metals, which does not reflect the true nature of what constitutes an alloy.