Copper

Copper is a reddish, malleable, and ductile metallic element with the symbol Cu and atomic number 29. It has an atomic weight of 63.546 u and a density of 8.96 g/cm3. Copper has a melting point of 1084.62°C and a boiling point of 2582°C. It commonly occurs in the +1 and +2 oxidation states. Copper rarely exists as a pure metal in nature. It is usually extracted from copper sulfide ores like chalcopyrite (CuFeS2) through smelting processes.

Copper has extensive applications in electronics due to its high electrical and thermal conductivity. It is used for wiring and electrical contacts in nearly all electrical equipment including motors, wiring, radios, power generation and transmission systems. Copper is also utilized in integrated circuits and printed circuit boards. Additionally, copper is an important material in the production of metal alloys like brass, bronze, and cupronickel which all contain copper.

Copper’s antimicrobial properties make copper surfaces ideal in hospitals, public transit, and other places where disinfection is crucial. Other uses of copper include heat exchangers, coinage, cookware, and even some building construction. Overall, copper’s unique combination of properties including conductivity, ductility, corrosion resistance, and antimicrobial action make it an indispensable material for electronics and many other applications.