Bronze is an alloy (a solid solution) primarily composed of copper and tin. In bronze, which component is the solvent?

• A. Copper
• B. Tin
• C. Carbon
• D. Oxygen

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of an alloy: An alloy is a solid solution composed of a solvent (the major component) and one or more solutes (minor components).
2. Identify the components of bronze: Bronze is primarily composed of copper and tin, with copper being the larger proportion.
3. Determine the solvent: In an alloy, the solvent is the element present in the greatest amount, which forms the continuous phase.
4. Since copper is the major component in bronze, it acts as the solvent, while tin is the solute.
5. Elements like carbon and oxygen are not primary components of bronze and thus are not considered the solvent.