Question

Mention the application of the following metals, (i) Al, (ii) Cu, (iii) Fe, (iv) Au.

Answer 1

Al: Aluminium is the most abundant metal and is a good conductor of electricity and heat. It also resists corrosion. The following are some of its applications.

1. Many heat exchangers/sinks and our day to day cooking vessels are made of aluminium.
2. It is used as wraps (aluminium foils) and is used in packing materials for food items.
3. Aluminium is not very strong, However, its alloys with copper, manganese, magnesium and silicon are lightweight and strong and they are used in the design of aeroplanes and other forms of transport.
4. As aluminium shows high resistance to corrosion, it is used in the design of chemical reactors, medical equipment, refrigeration units and gas pipelines.
5. Aluminium is a good electrical conductor and cheap, hence used in electrical overhead electric cables with a steel core for strength.

Cu:

1. Copper is used for making coins and ornaments along with gold and other metals.
2. Copper and its alloys are used for making wires, water pipes and other electrical parts.

Fe:

1. Iron and its alloys are used everywhere including bridges, electricity pylons, bicycle chains, cutting tools and rifle barrels.
2. Cast iron is used to make pipes, valves and pumps stoves etc…
3. Magnets can be made of iron and its alloys and compounds.
4. An important alloy of iron is stainless steel, and it is resistant to corrosion. It is used in architecture, bearings, cutlery, surgical instruments and jewellery. Nickel steel is used for making cables, automobiles and aeroplane parts. Chrome steels are used for manufacturing cutting tools and crushing machines.

Au:

1. Gold is used for coinage and has been used as the standard for monetary systems in some countries.
2. It is used extensively in jewellery in its alloy form with copper. It is also used in electroplating to cover other metals with a thin layer of gold which are used in watches, artificial limb joints, cheap jewellery, dental fillings and electrical connectors.
3. Gold nanoparticles are also used for increasing the efficiency of solar cells and also used as catalysts.