Bronze

Bronze, any of several alloys consisting mainly of copper and tin. Neither ancient nor modern bronzes consist only of these two metals. Zinc, lead, and silver were added to bronze alloys by Greek and Roman founders for use in tools, weapons, coins, and objects of art (see Metalwork). Zinc, lead, and other metals are occasionally present in modern bronze. The constituents of bronze vary; when it contains at least 10 per cent tin, the alloy is hard and has a low melting point. The names of varieties of bronze are derived from a constituent, as in the cases of aluminium bronze, manganese bronze, and phosphor bronze. Bronze is stronger and harder than any other common alloy except steel. Modern bronze is used for bearings, fittings, and other machine parts. See also See also Brass; Founding.