German silver (nickel silver) — choose the representative composition German silver, also known as nickel silver, is a Cu–Zn–Ni alloy used for a silvery appearance without precious metal content. Which of the following nominal compositions best represents German silver?

Introduction / Context:
German silver (nickel silver) is widely used for cutlery fittings, musical instruments, and decorative hardware thanks to its bright, silvery color and good formability. Despite the name, it contains no elemental silver; the “silver” look comes from nickel in a copper–zinc matrix.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Compositions are given in percent by mass.
• The goal is to identify a typical ternary Cu–Zn–Ni formulation.
• No precious metal is expected in standard German silver.

Concept / Approach:
Nickel silver grades commonly contain 10–20% nickel; however, a number of traditional specifications use nickel around 5–10% with the remainder copper and zinc. Among the choices, only the option including ~5.35% Ni alongside ~60% Cu and ~35% Zn fits the standard “nickel silver” profile. Pure Cu–Zn brasses (without Ni) lack the characteristic silvery hue.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Alloy handbooks list several nickel silver grades (e.g., CuNiZn) with nickel typically between 5–20% and no silver; the selected composition lies within this range.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Cu–Zn only: these are brasses, not nickel silvers.
• Option containing tin: not standard nickel silver chemistry.
• Option with silver: contradicts the very definition of “nickel silver.”

Common Pitfalls:
Assuming the trade name implies precious metal; confusing color effects of Ni with Ag plating.

Final Answer: