Gunmetal

High school (ages 12+)
Science & Technology

Name:

Date:

Step 1 · Read the article

Open the article and read it at the level above. Then answer the questions below in your own words.

https://smallwhale.org/articles/gunmetal

Write what each word means, using the article.

Do not copy the article. Write two things you learned, the way you would explain them to a friend.

Answers below are taken from the article’s stored facts, so they match what the student read.

1. What is the alloy composition?Predominantly copper (approx. 88%), with tin (8-10%) and zinc (2-4%)
2. What is the regional designation?Referred to as red brass within the United States
3. Why is gunmetal also called red brass in North America?Red brass is another name for the same copper alloy. The name comes from its reddish color and similar composition.
4. How strong is gunmetal?Gunmetal can handle pulling forces of 221 to 310 megapascals. That means it can stay together even under a lot of pressure.

Bronze: An alloy primarily composed of copper, usually with tin as the main additive.
Metallurgical Composition: The specific elements and their proportions that make up a metal alloy.
Tensile Strength: The maximum stress a material can withstand while being stretched or pulled before breaking.