Question

The element which is alloyed with copper to form brass is:
(A) Pb
(B) Bi
(C) Zn
(D) Sb

Answer 1

Hint Alloys are made up of metals because they have modified and superior properties than that of pure metals and have much more applications than them. Some common modified properties include increase in strength, increase in corrosion resistance or reduce in costs.

Complete step by step solution:
Let us discuss the alloys of copper;
Brass- It is harder than the pure copper but has high working properties. It is the name given to the alloy made of copper and zinc in varying proportions to achieve different mechanical and electrical properties.
It is a type of substitutional alloy where the crystal structure remains same and the constituent atoms replace each other. It is commonly used for the manufacture of musical instruments i.e. horns or bells. Also, sometimes used in the making of artificial jewellery.
To enhance the machinability of brass, lead is added in smaller amounts i.e. nearly 2% but is not the basic and main component of brass.

Thus, option (C) is correct.

Note: Another alloy of copper which has numerous applications is bronze; tin (Sn) will be in 10 to 25% as compared to that of copper which is in 75 to 90%. There are only two main alloys of copper i.e. brass and bronze. Do not get confused in the compositions of these two.