Copper

Copper has been used by humans for thousands of years, making it one of the first metals to be utilized. Archaeological evidence suggests that copper was first used around 10,000 years ago in the Middle East, particularly in areas that are now part of Turkey and Iran. The use of copper in tools and weapons marked the beginning of the Chalcolithic period, also referred to as the Copper Age. It was during this time that humans started to extract and manipulate copper in its natural state. By around 3000 BCE, Egyptians were well-versed in copper metallurgy, using it extensively for various applications, including creating tools, ornaments, and even in the construction of statues. The advent of bronze, an alloy of copper and tin, further revolutionized metalworking. Over the centuries, copper continued to play a vital role in shaping human civilization through its myriad applications, solidifying its place not only in industry but also in art and architecture.

Copper naturally occurs in the environment, primarily as a native metal and in various minerals, including chalcopyrite, bornite, and malachite. It can be found in igneous rocks and sedimentary deposits, often in association with other metal ores. The highest concentrations of copper minerals are found in the United States, Chile, and Zambia. Although copper is relatively abundant in the Earth's crust, it is less common in seawater, where it exists only in trace amounts. Copper ore extraction involves mining from underground and surface sources, where it is then processed and refined to produce pure copper metal. Recycling is also a critical component of copper availability, as it is one of the most recycled metals in the world, with a significant portion of the annual copper supply coming from recycled sources.

Copper plays a crucial role in the biological systems of living organisms. It is an essential trace element, meaning it is required in small amounts for proper physiological functions. In humans, copper is involved in key biochemical processes, such as the formation of red blood cells, absorption of iron, and maintenance of nerve cells and immune function. Copper is also a vital component of several enzymes that participate in energy production and antioxidant defense, aiding in the synthesis of collagen and other important proteins. Although necessary for health, excessive copper can be toxic, leading to conditions like Wilson's disease where copper accumulates in tissues. Therefore, maintaining proper copper levels is crucial for health and well-being.

Copper is known for its distinctive reddish-brown color and exhibits excellent thermal and electrical conductivity, making it a favored choice for electrical wiring and electronic products. It has a melting point of 1,984 degrees Celsius and a boiling point of 2,562 degrees Celsius. Copper is ductile and malleable, allowing it to be drawn into wires or hammered into thin sheets. Chemically, copper is relatively resistant to corrosion; however, in moist environments, it can develop a green patina (copper carbonate) known as verdigris. In terms of reactivity, copper can react with nitric acid and sulfuric acid to form various copper salts, but it does not react with water or dilute acids. Its compounds, such as copper sulfate and copper chloride, find extensive use in agriculture and industry.

Copper is widely used in various industries due to its excellent conductivity and corrosion resistance. The electrical sector is a significant consumer of copper, with its primary applications found in wiring and electrical components in both residential and commercial buildings. Additionally, copper is used in plumbing and roofing materials due to its durability. The automotive industry uses copper in electric vehicles and traditional combustion engines for wiring and components. Beyond construction and transportation, copper plays a role in the production of coins, jewelry, and art. Its compounds are utilized in agriculture as fungicides and in the production of pigments for dyes and paints. In recent years, the antimicrobial properties of copper have garnered attention, leading to its use in touch surfaces in healthcare settings to reduce pathogen transmission.

• Copper was the first metal to be worked by humans, with evidence of its use dating back to around 10,000 years ago.
• The Statue of Liberty is made of copper, and its green color is due to the reaction of copper with oxygen and moisture in the air, forming a patina.
• Copper is one of the few metals that can occur in nature in a metallic state, making it unique among elements.
• Copper is essential for all living organisms, playing significant roles in various biochemical processes.
• Recycling copper saves up to 85% of the energy required to produce new copper from ores.