Where is copper obtained from?

The copper It is a reddish transition metal with a metallic luster. Transition metals are the chemical elements found in the central part of the periodic table.

Copper is the most widely used material both to make electrical cables and other electrical and electronic components, due to its high electric conductivity and his malleability.

It is the third most consumed metal in the world, after iron and from aluminum.

Where is copper obtained from?

Open mines and pyrometallurgical processes

Copper is obtained from mines, where it is found in a very low concentration (between 0.4 and 1% copper). World production is 18.7 million tons per year of fine copper. The main producing countries are Chile, China, Peru, the United States and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

The priometallurgical process has several stages:

Physical properties of copper

Uses and applications of copper

1. farming. As copper sulfate it is used as a fertilizer and pesticide, as well as a preservative of the mother.
instagram story viewer
2. Currencies. Since ancient times it was used in the manufacture of money.
3. Electricity. It is used for electrical cables and in generators, motors and transformers.
4. Telecommunications. Telephone cables are also copper.
5. Computing. Computer equipment has copper in its integrated circuits and internal wiring.
6. Transport. It is used in radiators, as well as in the cables of electrical components.
7. Building. It is used in water pipes for its resistance to corrosion in addition to its antibacterial properties. It replaces lead, which can cause poisoning.
8. Ornamentation. It is used in the construction of facades, roofs, doors and windows, with a decorative function. It is also used as copper sulfate for the decoration of tiles and ceramics.

Copper alloys

There are more than 400 copper alloys, used for different industries and uses. The main ones are:

Follow with: