As an expert in the field of materials science with a focus on the properties of metals, I can provide a comprehensive answer to your question regarding the electrical conductivity of brass. Brass is an alloy made primarily of copper and zinc, and its electrical conductivity is indeed a topic of interest for various applications, from electrical wiring to musical instruments.

Electrical Conductivity of Brass
Electrical conductivity is a measure of a material's ability to conduct an electric current. It is often quantified by a property known as the International Annealed Copper Standard (IACS), which is a relative scale with pure copper set as 100%. This standard is used to compare the conductive properties of different materials.

Comparison to Copper
Copper is renowned for its high electrical conductivity, which is why it is widely used in electrical applications. Brass, being an alloy of copper, does inherit some of this conductivity. However, the presence of zinc in brass reduces its overall conductivity compared to pure copper. The statement that brass is only 28% as conductive as copper is not accurate. In reality, brass's conductivity is closer to that of copper, but not equal to it. The exact percentage can vary based on the specific composition of the brass alloy, but it is generally higher than 28%.

Factors Affecting Conductivity
The electrical conductivity of brass can be influenced by several factors, including:

1. Composition: The ratio of copper to zinc in the alloy can significantly affect its conductivity. Higher copper content generally leads to higher conductivity.

2. Impurities: The presence of other elements or impurities can also impact the conductivity.

3. Processing: The method of manufacturing and any subsequent heat treatments can alter the microstructure of the brass, which in turn can affect its electrical properties.

Applications
Despite being less conductive than copper, brass is still used in certain electrical applications where its other properties, such as corrosion resistance and mechanical strength, are more critical. For example, in some marine environments, brass's resistance to saltwater corrosion makes it a preferred choice over copper.

Relative Conductivity
When discussing the relative conductivity of materials, it's important to understand that the IACS scale is a comparative measure. While brass may not match copper's conductivity, it still possesses a significant level of conductivity that makes it useful for various applications. The statement about some bronzes being as low as 7% as conductive as copper is misleading because bronze and brass, although similar, are distinct alloys with different compositions and properties.

Conclusion
In conclusion, brass is electrically conductive, but its conductivity is less than that of pure copper. The exact percentage of conductivity relative to copper depends on the specific brass alloy and its composition. It is not as low as 28% or 7% as some sources might suggest, and it is certainly more conductive than those figures indicate. The IACS provides a useful framework for comparing the relative conductivities of different materials, and while brass may not be the best conductor, it still has a place in the realm of electrical applications where its other properties are valued.

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Brass is only 28% as conductive as copper. Some bronzes are as low as 7% as conductive as copper! Copper is the standard by which electrical materials are rated and conductivity ratings are expressed as a relative measurement to copper. ... The higher the % IACS, the more conductive the material is.May 15, 2002read more >>