Copper
Copper, element #29, has an atomic mass of 63.546 amu and a density of 8.96 g/cm cubed.
Cu's electron levels are 2-8-18-1, and has valences of +2 and 1. Copper is a member
of group 1B along with silver and gold. Cu, known since ancient times, melts at
1083.45 degrees C, and boils at 2566.85 degrees C. Cu is very malleable and ductile ans is one of the best electrical conductors available.
Eye contact with particles of Cu can cause an eye infection that can cause blindness. Cu can cause "metal fume fever" and a skin rash.
Cu is a reddish brown metal, and is used in chemical and pharmaceutical machinery. It can be found in
the minerals cuprite, malachite, azurite, chalcopyrite, and bornite.
June 20, 1997
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