Alloys in which copper is the chief constituent are used more widely than pure copper and have more desirable properties. Bronze, an alloy of copper and tin, is easier to cast, harder, and less malleable than pure copper. Bronze dominated early technology before iron came into use. Brass is an alloy of copper and zinc with multitudinous uses. Alloys of copper, nickel, and zinc, called nickel silver, have high resistance to corrosion and wear and are used as bases for silver plating and in costume jewelry. Robert Boikess and Edward Edelson, Chemical Principles
A) Argument, conclusion: Bronze dominated early technology ... came into use.
B) Argument; conclusion: Alloys in which copper ... more desirable properties.
C) Argument, conclusion: Alloys of copper, nickel, and zinc ... costume jewelry.
D) Argument, conclusion: Brass is an alloy of copper and zinc ... multitudinous uses.
E) Nonargument.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The passage presents an argument about the advantages of copper alloys over pure copper, stating that they have more desirable properties and are used more widely. This argument is supported by examples of specific copper alloys and their properties. The other statements in the passage can be seen as supporting evidence for this overall argument.

Alloys in Which Copper Is the Chief Constituent Are Used