🔹 Basic Information

• Element Name: Copper
• Discovered By: Known since ancient times (used by humans for over 10,000 years)
• Year of Discovery: Prehistoric (before 9000 BCE)
• Category: Transition Metal
• Group: 11 (Group IB – Coinage Metals)
• State at Room Temperature: Solid (reddish-brown metal) 🧱🔩

Copper is one of the oldest metals used by humans. It is shiny, reddish-brown, and known for being an excellent conductor of electricity and heat. It’s also easily shaped, which makes it very versatile in daily life.

🔸 Chemical Properties

• Chemical Symbol: Cu
• Atomic Number: 29
• Atomic Mass: ~63.55 u
• Valency: 1 or 2
• Electronic Configuration: [Ar] 3d¹⁰ 4s¹

Copper reacts slowly with oxygen to form a greenish layer called patina (seen on old copper roofs or the Statue of Liberty 🗽). It also reacts with acids like sulfuric and nitric acid.

📘 Basic Things to Know

The name “copper” comes from the Latin word “cuprum,” meaning from Cyprus, where it was historically mined. Copper is found in nature in minerals like chalcopyrite and also as native copper (in pure form).

It’s ductile (can be drawn into wires), malleable (can be hammered into sheets), and resists corrosion, which makes it perfect for wiring, plumbing, and coins.

🤔 Interesting Facts

• Copper is 100% recyclable without losing quality — eco-friendly! ♻️
• It’s the only metal (besides gold) with natural color other than silver or gray.
• Your body needs copper in small amounts for forming red blood cells and keeping nerves healthy. 🧠
• The Statue of Liberty is made of copper — it turned green due to weathering over time. 🗽
• Ancient Egyptians used copper for tools and jewelry as early as 3000 BCE.

🔧 Common Uses

• Electrical Wiring: Used in almost all electric circuits because it’s a great conductor. ⚡🔌
• Plumbing: Copper pipes are strong and resist corrosion. 🚿
• Coins: Many coins contain copper or copper alloys (like bronze and brass). 💰
• Construction: Used in roofing, gutters, and decorative elements. 🏠
• Electronics: Found in motors, generators, circuit boards, and transformers. 💻

📚 Conclusion

Copper is a shiny, flexible, and super-conductive metal that has shaped human technology for thousands of years. From ancient tools to modern electronics, copper continues to play a huge role in our everyday lives. For students, copper is a great example of how materials science connects the past, present, and future! 🧲🔬