Question

An alloy of copper and zinc is:
A. Bronze
B. Alnico
C. Brass
D. Steel

Answer 1

Hint: The term ‘alloy’ in chemistry is used to refer to the combination of metals or the combination of metals with one or more elements.
The resulting combination or mixture forms a substance that has often different properties than that of the pure metals. These properties may be increased strength or hardness.

Complete step by step answer:
Copper alloys or alloys of copper are metal alloys which have copper as the principal constituent. Copper alloys are known to have high resistance against corrosion.
Now, let us discuss the given options one by one.
Bronze is an alloy of copper and mostly tin, but sometimes it may contain aluminium or silicon. Bell metal alloy is a bronze alloy of copper with a higher tin content. Aluminium bronzes are alloys having copper and aluminium and have higher strength and corrosion resistance than other bronzes. So, option A is not correct.
Alnico is an alloy which belongs to the iron family of alloys. Iron is the main constituent and in addition to this, aluminium, nickel and copper are also present. so, option B is incorrect.
Brass is an alloy which consists of copper and zinc. The color of brass alloy is usually yellow. The brass alloys have a differing combination of properties which include strength, wear-resistance, ductility, hardness, electrical and thermal conductivity and corrosion resistance. So, the correct option is C.
Steel is another alloy of iron containing less than 2 percent of carbon. Additional elements like sulphur, phosphorus, silicon etc. may also be present in small amounts. So, option D is incorrect.

Note:
Because of the good resistance to corrosion, high malleability and acoustic properties of brass, it is used in the construction of various musical instruments like trombone, trumpet, baritone horn etc.
Bronze alloy is used for casting sculptures, in the construction of musical instruments and also in making coins and medals.