9.2.1

Uses of Metals: Aluminium & Copper

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Uses of Metals: Aluminium and Copper

Metals' physical properties make it useful in aircraft, cables, food containers, and wiring.

Illustrative background for Aluminium's low density and aircraft manufactureIllustrative background for Aluminium's low density and aircraft manufacture ?? "content

Aluminium's low density and aircraft manufacture

  • Aluminium has a low density compared to many metals.
    • Low density makes aluminium light, ideal for aircraft construction.
    • Using aluminium helps aircraft use less fuel and fly efficiently.
Illustrative background for Aluminium in overhead electrical cablesIllustrative background for Aluminium in overhead electrical cables ?? "content

Aluminium in overhead electrical cables

  • Aluminium's low density reduces the weight of overhead cables.
  • Aluminium conducts electricity well, almost as well as copper.
    • These properties make aluminium perfect for long overhead electrical cables.
    • Lighter cables are easier to support on poles and towers.
Illustrative background for Aluminium in food containersIllustrative background for Aluminium in food containers ?? "content

Aluminium in food containers

  • Aluminium resists corrosion, meaning it does not react easily with air or food.
    • This resistance keeps food safe and fresh inside containers.
      • Aluminium is resistant to corrosion because of the impervious coating of Al₂O₃.
    • Metal does not rust like iron, making aluminium better for containers.
Illustrative background for Copper in electrical wiringIllustrative background for Copper in electrical wiring ?? "content

Copper in electrical wiring

  • Copper has excellent electrical conductivity, better than aluminium.
  • Copper wires easily bend without breaking, showing great ductility.
  • Copper wires efficiently carry electricity in homes and electronics.

Jump to other topics

1States of Matter

2Atoms, Elements & Compounds

3Stoichometry

4Electrochemistry

5Chemical Energetics

6Chemical Reactions

7Acids, Bases & Salts

8The Periodic Table

9Metals

10Chemistry of the Environment

11Organic Chemistry

11.1Formulae, Functional Groups & Terminology

11.2Naming Organic Compounds

11.3Fuels

11.4Alkanes

11.5Alkenes

11.6Alcohols

11.7Carboxylic Acids

11.8Polymers

12Experimental Techniques & Chemical Analysis

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