Brass is a mixture of

Step 1: Analyze the question The question asks which metals are combined to make brass. Brass is an alloy, which is a mixture of metals.

Step 2: Concept An alloy is made by combining a metal with one or more other elements to improve properties like strength, hardness, or resistance to corrosion. Here are some common alloys you should know for WASSCE, JAMB and NECO:

| Alloy | Composition | |---|---| | Brass | Copper (Cu) + Zinc (Zn) | | Bronze | Copper (Cu) + Tin (Sn) | | Solder | Lead (Pb) + Tin (Sn) | | Steel | Iron (Fe) + Carbon (C) | | Duralumin | Aluminium (Al) + Cu + Mg | | Type metal | Lead + Antimony + Tin |

Step 3: Solution

• A. Cu and Sn: this is bronze, not brass.
• B. Cu and Zn: this is brass. ✔
• C. Cu and Mg: this is not a common alloy.
• D. Cu and Pb: this is not brass. Lead is used in solder and in some bearing alloys.

Brass is typically about 60-70% copper and 30-40% zinc. It is used for musical instruments (like trumpets), door handles, taps, and decorative items.

Step 4: Answer The correct option is B. Cu and Zn.

Exam tip: Remember "Zebras wear Brass": Zinc goes with Brass, and Tin goes with Bronze (both Bronze and Tin, with copper in each). Copper is in both alloys, so the second metal is what the examiner tests.