Uses of Metals (Cambridge International IGCSE Science)
Exam board Cambridge International · IGCSEUpdated 2026-01-16
Spec point — Describe the uses of metals in terms of their physical properties, including: aluminium in the manufacture of aircraft because of its low density aluminium in the manufacture of overhead electrical cables because of its low density and good electrical conductivity aluminium in food containers because of its resistance to corrosion copper in electrical wiring because of its good electrical conductivity and ductility
Uses of metals
What is aluminium used for?
- Aluminium is a reactive metal
- Aluminium is widely used because it has a low density and is resistant to corrosion
- It forms a thin protective layer of aluminium oxide on its surface, which prevents further corrosion
Uses of aluminium
| Use | Property |
|---|---|
| aeroplane bodies | high strength-to-weight ratio, low density |
| overhead power cables | good electrical conductor, low density |
| food cans | non-toxic, resistant to corrosion and acidic foods |
What is copper used for?
- Copper is an unreactive metal
- Copper is widely used because it is a very good electrical conductor and is ductile
- This means it can carry electrical current efficiently and be drawn into thin wires
Copper is usually the metal inside electrical wires due to it's high conductivity
Uses of copper
| Use | Property |
|---|---|
| electrical wiring | very good conductor of electricity and ductile |
| pots and pans | very good conductor of heat, unreactive, malleable |
| water pipes | non-toxic, unreactive (does not react with water) and malleable |
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