Question

Name the constituents of German silver.

Answer 1

1. Alloys

Alloys are obtained by mixing one metal with other metals or non-metals. The main requirement of an alloy is the presence of at least one metal. Alloys are prepared to improve the metal properties like hardness and resistance to corrosion. The elements in the liquid state are mixed and cooled to obtain an alloy.

For example, brass is an alloy of Copper and Zinc.

2. German silver

German silver is an alloy of the elements Copper $\left(\mathrm{Cu}\right)$, Zinc $\left(\mathrm{Zn}\right)$ and Nickel $\left(\mathrm{Ni}\right)$. It contains 60 % of Copper, 20% of Zinc, and 20% of Nickel. Sometimes, other elements like Lead $\left(\mathrm{Pb}\right)$ and Tin $\left(\mathrm{Sn}\right)$ are also added to German silver.

The alloy is named German silver although it does not contain silver metal. This is due to the silver-white appearance of the alloy. German silver is very hard and highly resistant to corrosion. Therefore, the alloy is used for electroplating. It is also used in silverware and making jewellery.