Copper is a chemical element with the symbol Cu and atomic number 29. It is a soft, malleable, and ductile metal with very high thermal and electrical conductivity. Copper has been used for various purposes for thousands of years, dating back to the ancient civilizations of Egypt and Mesopotamia. Today, copper is widely used in electrical wiring, plumbing, roofing, and other applications where its high conductivity and durability are beneficial. It is also an essential nutrient for human health, playing a role in the formation of red blood cells and connective tissue. Copper is commonly found in ores such as chalcopyrite, bornite, and malachite, and it is mined in many countries around the world, including Chile, Peru, and the United States.
- Copper has a reddish-orange color and a metallic luster.
- It is a relatively heavy metal, with a density of 8.96 grams per cubic centimeter.
- Copper has a melting point of 1,984.32 degrees Fahrenheit (1,083.4 degrees Celsius) and a boiling point of 4,643.6 degrees Fahrenheit (2,562 degrees Celsius).
- The atomic symbol Cu comes from the Latin word “cuprum,” which means “from Cyprus.” This is because copper was mined on the island of Cyprus in ancient times and was traded throughout the Mediterranean region.
- Copper is highly conductive, meaning it can transfer heat and electricity efficiently. It is used in electrical wiring, motors, transformers, and other applications where conductivity is important.