Properties and uses of copper

The roles of copper

Copper plays a vital role in shaping our lives. In this collection of resources, you can find out about the biology, chemistry and physics of copper. First, though, you can discover why copper is important:

• in the home: It is hidden away in everyday objects around our homes, including phones, water pipes, locks and electrical wiring.
• in history: People have been using copper since 9000 BC. One of the reasons copper is so important is that it can be made into alloys. That means it can be combined with other metals to make new alloys, like brass and bronze. These are harder, stronger and more corrosion resistant than pure copper.
• for its properties: It is an excellent conductor of electricity and heat; it is strong, ductile and easily joined by soldering or brazing; and it is hygienic, easy to alloy and resists corrosion.

Contents

In this collection, there are seven e-sources about copper. They are aimed at different science subjects and different ages, as shown here.