Introduction
Copper is a metallic element whose symbol is “Cu” and the atomic number of the periodic table is 29. It is highly conductive to heat and electricity and is physically soft and malleable. Copper has been used by humans for various purposes dating back to 8,000 B.C. Today, it is mostly used by the electrical industry to make wires, cables, and other electronic components. It is also used as a building material or can be melted with other metals to make coins or jewelry for example.
Copper mostly occurs in ore, found in volcanic and sedimentary rock. From ore, the copper must be extracted through smelting and other processes. Despite its usual amber color, copper may be oxidized and turn green when exposed to water and air—the most famous example being the Statue of Liberty in New York. Moreover, copper is also one of the few metals that is fully recyclable without loss of quality.
Copper is an important commodity that is widely used and its production plays a crucial role in a country’s economic and social growth. More than creating value by exporting the metal, its production also contributes to creating jobs.
Learn for yourself about copper production by country by examining the map and charts.
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