Copper
| Formula / Notation | Cu |
|---|---|
| Also Known As | Cu, cuprum, copper metal, cuprous (Cu⁺), cupric (Cu²⁺) |
What is Copper?
Copper (Cu, atomic number 29) is a soft, malleable, ductile metal with high electrical and thermal conductivity. It was one of the first metals used by humans. Copper forms +1 (cuprous) and +2 (cupric) ions, exhibits characteristic blue-green compounds (such as copper sulfate CuSO₄), and is essential for many biological enzymes. It is widely used in electrical wiring, plumbing, and alloys (brass, bronze).
Formula & Notation
Other Names / Synonyms: Cu, cuprum, copper metal, cuprous (Cu⁺), cupric (Cu²⁺)
Properties & Characteristics
Uses & Applications
Safety Information
Always consult the SDS/MSDS before handling any chemical. This information is for educational purposes only.
Key Facts
Frequently Asked Questions
Copper (Cu, atomic number 29) is a soft, malleable, ductile metal with high electrical and thermal conductivity. It was one of the first metals used by humans. Copper forms +1 (cuprous) and +2 (cupric) ions, exhibits characteristic blue-green compounds (such as copper sulfate CuSO₄), and is essential for many biological enzymes. It is widely used in electrical wiring, plumbing, and alloys (brass, bronze).
Copper is the primary metal for electrical wiring and circuitry (high conductivity). It is used in plumbing, roofing, coinage (bronze = Cu+Sn, brass = Cu+Zn), heat exchangers, and as a catalyst (Cu/ZnO for methanol synthesis). Copper compounds are used as fungicides (Bordeaux mixture), wood preserva…
Copper metal and compounds are moderately toxic; ingestion of soluble copper salts causes gastrointestinal distress. Cu²⁺ is acutely toxic to aquatic organisms. Industrial copper fume exposure (welding) can cause metal fume fever. Dust and fume control measures are required.
The formula or notation for Copper is: Cu