Uses of Metals (Cambridge (CIE) IGCSE Chemistry)
Revision Note
Written by: Caroline Carroll
Reviewed by: Stewart Hird
Uses of metals
What is aluminium used for?
Aluminium sits above hydrogen in the reactivity series, which means that is a reactive metal
Aluminium quickly reacts with oxygen to form a protective layer of aluminium oxide, which is why aluminium appears to be unreactive
Uses of aluminium
Use | Property |
|---|---|
aeroplane bodies | high strength-to-weight ratio, low density |
overhead power cables | good electrical conductor, low density |
saucepans | good thermal conductor |
food cans | non-toxic, resistant to corrosion and acidic food stuffs |
What is copper used for?
Copper sits below hydrogen in the reactivity series, which means it is an unreactive metal
The uses of copper relate to its properties
For example, it is an excellent electrical conductor and ductile so is used in wiring
Copper is usually the metal inside electrical wires due to it's high conductivity
Uses of copper
Use | Property |
electrical wiring | very good conductor of electricity and ductile |
pots and pans | very good conductor of heat, unreactive, malleable |
water pipes | non-toxic, unreactive (does not react with water) and malleable |
surface in hospitals | antibacterial properties |
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