Cu - Copper

Copper is a highly versatile element with a wide range of applications due to its excellent physical and chemical properties. 

Physical Characteristics:

1. Symbol: Cu
2. Atomic Number: 29
3. Appearance: Reddish-brown metallic luster
4. Melting Point: 1085°C (1984°F)
5. Boiling Point: 2562°C (4643°F)
6. Density: 8.96 g/cm³ at 20°C

Applications:

1. Electrical Wiring and Components: Due to its outstanding electrical conductivity, copper is widely used in the electrical industry for wiring, coils, and electrical components, enabling efficient power distribution.

2. Plumbing and Piping: Copper’s durability, workability, and resistance to corrosion make it a preferred material for plumbing pipes and fixtures.

3. Construction: Copper is used in roofing, guttering, and as a building material in various architectural elements due to its aesthetic appeal and durability.

4. Heat Exchangers: Thanks to its excellent thermal conductivity, copper is often used in heat exchangers, radiators, and air conditioning systems.

5. Coinage: Many countries have used copper or its alloys in coins due to its durability and resistance to corrosion.

Compounds:

1. Copper(II) sulfate (CuSO₄): This blue crystalline solid is used in agriculture as a fungicide and algaecide, in chemistry education for electrolysis experiments, and in the manufacture of other copper compounds.

2. Copper(II) oxide (CuO): A black powder used as a pigment in ceramics to produce blue, green, and red colors, and in the production of dry cell batteries.

3. Copper(I) oxide (Cu₂O): A red solid used in antifouling coatings for ships, as a fungicide, and in the manufacture of glass and ceramics.

Basics on Copper-Wikipedia