(a) Define the terms 'alloy' and 'amalgam'. Name the alloy used for welding electric wires together. What are its constituents? (b) Name the constituents of the following alloys: (i) Brass (ii) Stainless steel (iii) Bronze. State one property in each of these alloys which is different from its main constituents.

(a) Alloy: An alloy is a homogeneous mixture of two metals or a metal and a non-metal.

Amalgam: Amalgam is an alloy of mercury with any other metal. Solder is an alloy used for welding electric wires. It is an alloy of lead and tin.

(b) (i) Brass: It is an alloy of zinc and copper. Brass has an attractive "gold-like" appearance which is not a property of its constituents.

(ii) Stainless steel: It is an alloy of chromium, nickel, molybdenum, silicon, aluminium, and carbon. Steel is corrosion resistant.

(iii) Bronze: It is an alloy of tin and copper. Bronze exhibits less friction than other metals and thus beating bronze won't result in an accidental fire.