Chemistry - 0620 CIE

Uses Of Metals

Overview

Why is aluminium chosen for aircraft but copper for electrical wiring? The answer lies in matching the physical properties of each metal to the job in hand. A metal that is light and resists corrosion suits one task; a metal that conducts electricity well and bends into wires suits another.

In this lesson you will learn the main uses of aluminium and copper, and in each case the property that makes the metal suitable. This linking of use to property is exactly what examiners ask for, and it is how engineers choose materials in the real world.

Objectives

  1. Describe the uses of metals in terms of their physical properties, including: (a) aluminium in the manufacture of aircraft because of its low density (b) aluminium in the manufacture of overhead electrical cables because of its low density and good electrical conductivity (c) aluminium in food containers because of its resistance to corrosion (d) copper in electrical wiring because of its good electrical conductivity and ductility.

Lesson Note

Choosing the right metal for a job is a daily decision in engineering and design. The skill is to connect a property to a use: low density for things that must be light, good conductivity for things that must carry electricity, resistance to corrosion for things exposed to air and water.

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Lesson Evaluation

Congratulations on completing the lesson on Uses Of Metals. Now that youve explored the key concepts and ideas, its time to put your knowledge to the test. This section offers a variety of practice questions designed to reinforce your understanding and help you gauge your grasp of the material.

You will encounter a mix of question types, including multiple-choice questions, short answer questions, and essay questions. Each question is thoughtfully crafted to assess different aspects of your knowledge and critical thinking skills.

Use this evaluation section as an opportunity to reinforce your understanding of the topic and to identify any areas where you may need additional study. Don't be discouraged by any challenges you encounter; instead, view them as opportunities for growth and improvement.

  1. Why is aluminium used in the manufacture of aircraft? A. High density B. Low density C. Magnetism D. High reactivity Answer: B
  2. Why is copper used in electrical wiring? A. It is magnetic B. It has low density C. It conducts electricity well and is ductile D. It resists heat Answer: C
  3. Why is aluminium used to make food containers? A. It is heavy B. It resists corrosion C. It is magnetic D. It is very reactive Answer: B
  4. Which two properties make aluminium suitable for overhead electrical cables? A. High density and hardness B. Low density and good electrical conductivity C. Magnetism and ductility D. Brittleness and low cost Answer: B
  5. Which property allows copper to be drawn into wires? A. Brittleness B. Ductility C. Low melting point D. Magnetism Answer: B

Available on the Green Bridge App

Download the Green Bridge CBT app on your phone or computer to access full lesson notes, practice questions, and more.

Full lesson notes with diagrams
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Study offline, anytime, anywhere
Available on Android, Windows, macOS, and Linux

Available on the Green Bridge App

Download the Green Bridge CBT app on your phone or computer to access full lesson notes, practice questions, and more.

Full lesson notes with diagrams
AI-powered learning assistant
Study offline, anytime, anywhere
Available on Android, Windows, macOS, and Linux

Practice Mock Questions

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