gold
Is a precious and expensive metal element. It is symbolized by the symbol Au in chemistry. It is a yellow-colored metal with a slightly soft nature. It has a gloss characteristic. It has been used since ancient times as a cash currency. Through the purchase of various commodities, as well as use in the manufacture of precious jewelry, with the characteristic of gold characteristics make it expensive.
Gold is found in nature in the form of crystals and grains within the rocks in the river bottoms or mixed with other elements such as copper and lead, which is often in this case or in the form of strands or veins in the ground, and gold has a very high density, Easily interacting with other materials, which is poorly corrosive, has a soft texture and a bright color; all these qualities make it sit on the throne of other metals.
Distinguish between gold and copper
There are some methods that we can use to differentiate pure gold from copper, and to know whether the element is adulterated or not. These methods include:
- Method 1: Gold and copper can be distinguished by the use of magnets. Magnets can attract copper. Gold can not be attracted to magnets, so gold and copper can be distinguished.
- The second method: This method is done through the use of some special acids and the status of the piece, as gold does not react with acids and does not change color unlike other elements and minerals that begin to interact directly with acid, taking care to follow all instructions on the packaging acid to avoid damage And the risks that may arise.
- Method 3: It is known that gold has a caliber ranging from 10 to 24 carats, and can be seen on the piece, although the number is less than 10 it is copper and not gold.
Areas of gold use
We mentioned previously that gold is one of the most important noble elements in nature, which has characteristics that make it valuable in humans, and areas where gold is used:
- Industry: Used in welding some high temperature elements such as brass, in addition to being used as a reflective layer worn on high-end cylinders, as well as in stamping quality.
- Food: It may surprise some that gold can enter the area of various foods and drinks, such as the use of gold chips in the decoration of strawberries and sweets, as well as added to some drinks, and contains the number E175, which allows it to enter the components of food.
- Medicine: It is used in the treatment of some diseases such as rheumatism and bone infections, and in dentistry for its inability to corrosion and interaction with foods and beverages, as well as in the treatment of some cancers.
- Ornamental: where mixed with some other elements such as copper, zinc and others to form jewelry and ornaments for decoration.