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IGCSE Chemistry: Complete Revision Bank

Unit 9: Metals

9.2 Uses of Metals

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8. Why is aluminium used in the manufacture of aircraft?
Aluminium is selected primarily due to its remarkably low density paired with functional structural strength, minimizing overall vehicular mass.
9. State two properties of aluminium that make it suitable for overhead electrical cables.
It features a low density (preventing long structural wires from sagging or snapping supporting pylons) and good electrical conductivity.
10. Why is aluminium used for food containers?
Because of its highly effective resistance to corrosion, which is achieved via a non-porous, self-healing surface layer of aluminium oxide.
11. List two physical properties of copper that make it ideal for electrical wiring.
Its exceptional electrical conductivity and its high ductility (allowing it to be drawn cleanly into narrow, pliable conductive threads).