What is typically included in the composition of the mold during the Antioch process?

The Antioch process is a well-known technique in the realm of metal casting that utilizes a specific mold composition to achieve desired characteristics in the final cast product. The correct answer reflects the typical composition used in the molding process, which balances materials to provide both strength and detail in the mold.

In this context, a mixture of 50% sand and 50% plaster is commonly used because it offers the right consistency for molding. The sand component provides the necessary structural integrity and allows for good flowability, while the plaster acts as a binding agent, enhancing detail reproduction and surface finish. This blend is particularly effective in producing molds that can withstand the heat and pressure of the molten metal during the casting process.

The other options do not represent the typical formulation used in the Antioch process. For example, a mixture of 75% sand and 25% water may not provide sufficient binding or strength, and a composition of 100% sand lacks the binding properties required for effective mold production. Similarly, a mixture of 90% metal and 10% plaster does not align with any conventional mold-making practices where metal is not typically part of the mold composition prior to casting.