Copper-Discovery, Properties, And Application

Copper is a versatile metal that has been used by humans for thousands of years. It is a chemical element with the symbol Cu and atomic number 29. It is a soft, malleable, and ductile metal that is a good conductor of heat and electricity.

Property	Value
Name	Copper
Symbol	Cu
Atomic number	29
Relative atomic mass (Ar)	63.546 r
Standard state	Solid at 298 K
Appearance	Copper, metallic
Classification	Metallic
Period in the periodic table	11
Group name	Coinage metal
Period in periodic table	4
Block in periodic table	d
Shell structure	2.8.18.1
CAS Registry	7440-50-8

Discovery

Copper has been known to humans since ancient times. The first recorded use of copper dates back to 8700 BC in the Middle East. It was not until the 16th century that copper was recognized as a chemical element.

Physical Properties

Copper is a reddish-orange metal that has a bright metallic luster. It has a melting point of 1083.4 °C and a boiling point of 2567 °C. Copper is a relatively soft metal and is highly malleable and ductile. It is an excellent conductor of heat and electricity, making it a popular choice for electrical wiring and heat exchangers.

Chemical Properties

Copper is a highly reactive metal that forms a variety of chemical compounds. It is commonly found in nature as a sulfide or oxide, but it can also occur in its native state. Copper reacts with oxygen in the air to form a layer of copper oxide, which gives copper its distinctive green patina.

Facts

• Copper is one of the few metals that is found in its native state in nature.
• It is essential for human health, as it is a component of many enzymes and plays a role in the formation of red blood cells.
• Copper is highly recyclable and can be reused indefinitely.

Applications

Copper has a wide range of applications in modern society. It is used in electrical wiring, plumbing, roofing, and many other construction applications. Copper is also used in the manufacture of coins, jewelry, and decorative objects.

Due to its antimicrobial properties, copper is being explored as a potential material for use in hospitals and other healthcare settings. Additionally, copper is used in the production of brass and bronze, which are important alloys in industry and manufacturing.