Alphametals

Aluminum

Aluminium is a chemical element with the atomic number 13 and symbol Al. Aluminium is a soft, nonmagnetic, ductile metal. It has a great affinity towards oxygen, and forms a protective layer of oxide on the surface when exposed to air. Aluminium visually resembles silver, both in its color and in its great ability to reflect light.

One surprising fact about aluminium is that it's the most widespread metal on Earth, making up more than 8% of the Earth's core mass. It's also the third most common chemical element on our planet after oxygen and silicon.

PROPERTIES AND USES OF ALUMINIUM

Pure aluminum with 99% is quite soft and weak. Commercial aluminum (99 to 99.6 percent pure) with small amounts of silicon and iron is hard and strong. Some properties of aluminium given below,

• Lightweight
• Durable
• Ductile
• Corrosion-resistant

Aluminium is used in a huge variety of products including cans, foils, kitchen utensils, window frames and aeroplane parts. This is because of its particular properties. It has low density, is non-toxic, has a high thermal conductivity, has excellent corrosion resistance and can be easily cast, machined and formed.

It is also non-magnetic and non-sparking. It is the second most malleable metal and the sixth most ductile. Aluminium is a good electrical conductor and is often used in electrical transmission lines. It is cheaper than copper and weight for weight is almost twice as good a conductor.

When evaporated in a vacuum, aluminium forms a highly reflective coating for both light and heat. It does not deteriorate, like a silver coating would. These aluminium coatings have many uses, including telescope mirrors, decorative paper, packages and toys.