# Brass is an alloy made from copper and zinc. Compare the properties of brass with those of pure copper, and explain why brass is more suitable than pure copper for making door fittings such as hinges and handles.

> Cambridge International IGCSE Chemistry (0620) — 9.3 Alloys and their properties · Compare · 4 marks

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. Brass is harder / stronger than pure copper
2. In pure copper the atoms are all the same size and the layers of atoms can slide over each other easily
3. Zinc atoms are a different size to copper atoms and disrupt / distort the regular arrangement
4. Brass is harder / more resistant to wear so it lasts longer / does not deform when used as hinges or handles

## Key terms

- [alloy](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/alloy)

## Related

- [Revision notes for Cambridge International IGCSE Chemistry (0620)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
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