The term "cuprous" is used to describe compounds or alloys that contain copper in the +1 oxidation state. Copper can exhibit multiple oxidation states, with +1 being the most common one after +2. Here are some examples of metals that can form cuprous compounds:

1. Copper (Cu): Copper itself can form cuprous compounds when it is in the +1 oxidation state. This is typically seen in copper(I) halides, such as cuprous chloride (CuCl), cuprous bromide (CuBr), and cuprous iodide (CuI).

2. Gold (Au): Gold can also form cuprous compounds, although it is more commonly found in the +3 oxidation state. Cuprous gold(I) compounds are less common but can be found in minerals like aurocupride (Cu3Au).

3. Silver (Ag): Silver can form cuprous compounds, but they are relatively rare. One example is cuprous silver(I) oxide (Ag2O), which is a dark brown solid.

4. Mercury (Hg): Mercury can form cuprous compounds, such as cuprous mercury(I) chloride (Hg2Cl2), which is a white solid.

5. Thallium (Tl): Thallium can form cuprous compounds, including cuprous thallium(I) iodide (TlCuI2), a yellow-orange solid.

These metals can form cuprous compounds due to their ability to adopt the +1 oxidation state and form stable bonds with other elements. Cuprous compounds often have unique properties and applications in various fields, including chemistry, materials science, and catalysis.