Copper
Copper is a chemical element with the symbol Cu and atomic number 29. It is a ductile metal with very high thermal and electrical conductivity. Copper is widely used in electrical wiring, plumbing, and in many industrial applications due to its excellent properties.
Physical Properties of Copper:
- Atomic Number: 29
- Atomic Mass: 63.55 amu
- Physical State at Room Temperature: Solid
- Color: Reddish-orange
- Melting Point: 1084.62°C
- Boiling Point: 2562°C
- Density: 8.96 g/cm³
Chemical Properties of Copper:
- Chemical Symbol: Cu
- Valency: +1, +2
- Reactivity: Copper is relatively unreactive in air and water at room temperature.
- Corrosion Resistance: Copper is resistant to corrosion, making it suitable for use in plumbing and roofing materials.
Uses of Copper:
Copper has a wide range of applications due to its excellent electrical and thermal conductivity. Some common uses of copper include:
- Electrical wiring and conductors
- Plumbing pipes and fittings
- Roofing materials
- Industrial machinery and equipment
- Coins and decorative items
Study Guide:
Here are some key points to remember about copper:
- Copper is a ductile metal with high thermal and electrical conductivity.
- It has a reddish-orange color and is relatively unreactive in air and water at room temperature.
- Copper is commonly used in electrical wiring, plumbing, and industrial machinery due to its excellent properties.
- It has a relatively high melting point and is resistant to corrosion.
- When studying copper, it is important to understand its physical and chemical properties, as well as its uses in various industries.
Remember to review the periodic table to locate copper and its atomic number. Also, explore the various compounds and alloys of copper to understand its versatile applications.
