Microstructure of Annealed Brass: Contrast Explained

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the optical microstructure of annealed brass, highlighting the contrast between grains. This contrast arises from the molecular structure of the brass, which is oriented at varying angles, resulting in differential light reflection. Additionally, the etching process affects the surface, causing the etchant to attack different areas at varying rates, further contributing to the observed contrast in the microstructure.

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temaire
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Here is an optical microstructure of annealed brass:

[PLAIN]http://img576.imageshack.us/img576/7955/annealed.png

Where does the contrast between grains come from?
 
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The molecular structure is oriented at different angles in each grain, and therefore reflects light differently.
 
It comes from your etchant attacking different parts of the surface of your material at different rates.
 

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