Chapter 14: Uses of metals

What are some common uses of aluminum?

Aluminum is used in aircraft (due to its light weight and strength), food packaging (because it is non-toxic and corrosion-resistant), and electrical cables (because it is a good conductor of electricity)

What are the main uses of iron and steel?

Iron is used in construction, while steel (an alloy of iron) is used for making buildings, bridges, and tools because of its strength

What is the use of copper and why is it ideal for this purpose?

Copper is used in electrical wiring due to its excellent electrical conductivity and resistance to corrosion

Explain why copper is used for electrical wiring but not for overhead power cables.

Copper is used for electrical wiring because it is an excellent conductor of electricity and does not corrode easily. However, copper is too heavy and expensive for overhead power cables, where aluminum is used instead because it is lighter and cheaper

Why is steel commonly used in construction while pure iron is not?

Steel is stronger and more resistant to corrosion than pure iron because it is an alloy. Adding carbon and other elements to iron makes steel harder and more durable for construction