For
centuries, copper has been widely used for various applications in
many industries. Its unique properties make it one of the most
valuable metals ever discovered. This metal is the backbone of the
world’s power generation infrastructure. The already large demand
for it is expected to only increase with time. More dependable
providers will be forced to produce more to meet the growing demand
for copper in the solar energy and electronics industries.
Since
copper is highly conductive, it is preferred for manufacturing
components of electronic devices. Copper is also used for
construction purposes; many building components such as roofing are
made of copper because of the metal’s high corrosion resistance.
Unlike iron that can immediately form rust as it makes contact with
oxygen, copper passivates to counter the effect of oxidation.
Passivation is the process by which the surface of a certain metal
reacts to oxygen by forming a protective film rather than rust.
Alloys
of copper and many other metals are also popular products. Copper
mixed with other elements result in alloys that have industrial and
commercial uses as versatile as ball bearings, mechanical components,
and ornamental pieces.
For
instance, bronze is the result of copper and tin being mixed; when
shaped, this metal is used in musical instruments. Another kind of
alloy is brass, which is copper combined with zinc; in use for
thousands of years already, brass is employed in a wide variety of
functions, including sculpture and indoor decoration.
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