1. Compiled by: Nesman Ng Copper

2. Lenntech Water Treatment Solutions http://www.lenntech.com/periodic/elements/cu.htm “Copper is a reddish metal with a face-centred cubic crystalline structure. It reflects red and orange light and absorbs other frequencies in the visible spectrum, due to its band structure, so it as a nice reddish colour. It is malleable, ductile, and an extremely good conductor of both heat and electricity. It is softer than iron but harder than zinc and can be polished to a bright finish. It is found in group Ib of the periodic table, together with silver and gold. Copper has low chemical reactivity. In moist air it slowly forms a greenish surface film called patina; this coating protects the metal from further attack.”

3. Chemical PropertiesLenntech Water Treatment Solutionshttp://www.lenntech.com/periodic/elements/cu.htm

4. Uses of CopperEuropean Copper Institute http://www.eurocopper.org/copper/copper-education.html “Copper plays a vital role in shaping our lives. 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. Nowadays it is prized for different qualities. 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. You can find copper all over the place. In your home it is hidden away in everyday objects, including phones, water pipes, locks and electrical wiring.”

5. Properties of CopperEuropean Copper Institute http://www.eurocopper.org/copper/copper-education.html

6. Why is copper used for electrical wiring? WikiAnswers http://wiki.answers.com/Q/Why_is_copper_used_in_electrical_wires “Copper combines several properties that have traditionally made it preferred for most electrical wiring. Copper is a good electrical conductor, provides a good contact surface, is ductile (is easily bent repeatedly without breaking) and it is not too expensive. Copper wire is also relatively easy to manufacture, and there is a long history of using it. However, other materials can and are used for electrical wiring. Furthermore, in the future it is reasonable to expect that copper will fall out of favor as new and better means of conducting electricity are better developed and perfected.”