Brass



Brass is an alloy made of copper and zinc; the proportions of zinc and copper can be varied to create a range of brasses with varying properties. It is a substitutional alloy: atoms of the two constituents may replace each other within the same crystal structure.

Today brass is used for decoration for its bright gold-like appearance; for applications where low friction is required; for plumbing and electrical applications; and extensively in brass musical instruments where a combination of high workability (historically with hand tools) and durability is desired. Brass is often used in situations where it is important that sparks not be struck, as in fittings and tools around explosive gases.

