Properties and Applications

Physical Properties of Metals

Malleability: Metals’ capability to be transformed into thin sheets without breaking. Gold is highly malleable.
Ductility: The property allowing metals to be stretched into wires. Copper is a great example of ductility.
Tensile strength: The level of resistance metals have against pulling forces. Steel exhibits high tensile strength.
Hardness: The ability of a metal to resist wear, indentation, and scratching.
Melting point: The specific temperature at which a metal transitions from a solid to a liquid state.

All metals have a tendency to lose electrons and form positively charged ions.
Metals have a dense atomic structure which allows them to conduct heat and electricity well.
With exceptions such as gold or platinum, metals are susceptible to corrosion, which is a natural process that gradually destroys metals by chemical reactions with the environment.

Construction: Steel, due to its high tensile strength and durability, is widely used in construction projects.
Electrical wiring: Copper is often used in electrical wiring due to its excellent conductivity.
Aircraft and Vehicles: Aluminium is frequently used in aircraft and vehicle production because of its light weight and strength.
Jewellery: Precious metals like gold and silver are commonly used in jewellery due to their aesthetics and resistance to corrosion.
Canning: Tin and aluminium are both used in canning because of their resistance to rust and corrosion.