sentence: Amalgams are used in tooth fillings.
sentences_before: An 'amalgam' is a solution of a metal in mercury. Many metals can dissolve in mercury.
sentences_after: Platinum and iron cannot form amalgams. Gold can dissolve in mercury, which is used to separate gold from its ore. Aluminum forms an amalgam which can react with water because the thin oxide coating on the aluminum is dissolved.
concept_name: amalgam
headings: Amalgam
categories: Chemicals