Brass is a metal composed primarily of copper and zinc. Copper is the main component, and brass is usually classified as a copper alloy.

    The color of brass varies from a dark reddish brown to a light silvery yellow depending on the amount of zinc present; the more zinc, the lighter the color. Brass is stronger and harder than copper, but not as strong or hard as steel.

    It is easy to form into various shapes, a good conductor of heat, and generally resistant to corrosion from salt water.

    Because of these properties, brass is used to make pipes and tubes, weather-stripping and other architectural trim pieces, screws, radiators, musical instruments, and cartridge casings for firearms.