Understanding Eutectic Compositions: The Science Behind Melting Points

[member 392791]

Hello,

I am curious as to how the eutectic composition works and how it is that you can combine two materials in a solid, and as the % of the higher melting point materials increases, there is actually a point, known as the Eutectic point, where the melting point is lower than either of the two materials separately.

Essentially what I am asking is how eutectic behavior comes about

Any clarification would be appreciated.

Thanks

 

[UltrafastPED]

Does this help: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eutectic_system