A Visual Encyclopedia of the Periodic Table

69

Transition Metals

be magnetic as and when they are needed. They

can be much more powerful than normal magnets

and can lift heavy objects. Pure copper does not

rust, but it reacts with air over time to form a layer

of grey-green copper carbonate called verdigris.

This can be seen on copper statues, such as the

Statue of Liberty. Copper is often mixed with

other metals to produce tougher alloys. Bronze, a

copper-tin alloy, is more durable than pure copper

and has been used since ancient times. Brass, a

copper-zinc alloy, is used in musical instruments,

such as trumpets.

Uses

A verdigris

layer protects

pure copper

from additional

weathering.

Copper^

electr

ical^ w

ires

Pure copper

can be stretched to

form long wires.

Br

on

ze

(^) h
el
m
et
A copper glaze on the vase
gives it a metallic shine.
This tough alloy
does not weaken
over time.
The brass tube contains
air that vibrates to produce
musical sounds.
Computer
motherboard
Copper coating on steel
slows down corrosion.
Copper wire
Massive crane-mounted
electromagnets contain
huge coils of copper wire.
Brass tr umpet
G
ia
n
t
el
ec
tr
om
ag
ne
t
E
el
c
tr
o
p
la
te
d^
na
ils
S
ta
tu
e
of
(^) L
ib
er
ty
,
N
ew
(^) Y
or
k
C
ity
, (^) U
SA C
o
p
pe
r-
g
la
ze
d
v
a
se
ELECTROPLATING
A thin layer of copper can be added to metal,
usually iron, to stop it from corroding easily.
This process is called electroplating.
Electrons flow from
the positive to the
negative electrode.
This solution
contains dissolved
copper ions.
This electrode
is made of iron.
Copper ions form
a protective coating
over the metal.
This positive
electrode is made
of copper and
slowly dissolves
in the liquid.
068-069_Copper.indd 69 12/12/16 5:38 pm